Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has said joining the Betway Premiership giants turned his life upside down in a good and challenging way.
Since arriving in January 2024 from SuperSport United, the KwaMashu-born star has played 59 games for the Sea Robbers, scored five goals, and earned five Bafana Bafana caps after limited opportunities (just 29 appearances) at his former club.
Joining Orlando Pirates not only turned playing time around, but it also triggered a dream debut for Bafana Bafana—he scored on debut against Uganda and struck again against South Sudan in AFCON qualifiers.
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The former Highlands Park midfielder says the move changed everything, for the better, but with a few downsides. “Playing for Orlando Pirates changed my life,” he admitted. “I got my first national team call-up, fans saw me beyond South Africa, and my talent was showcased. But now, privacy is gone.”
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He reflected on the price of fame: “People watch you everywhere, even at a mall, a small mix-up can become big headlines.”
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