The future of Orlando Pirates strikers Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa became a hot topic following their surprising absence in the team’s recent MTN8 quarterfinal clash against Polokwane City.
The duo, who have shared the number nine role under former coach Jose Riveiro, were both missing from the matchday squad, raising eyebrows among supporters and analysts alike.
In their place, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opted to start with young forward Boitumelo Radiopane, while Orlando Pirates’ new striker signing Yanela Mbuthuma (23) debuted from the bench.
Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa, who scored 15 and 10 goals last season, did not make the matchday squad.
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“Makgopa and Mabasa are very important players for me,” said Ouaddou, as quoted by KickOff. “I know them from before. You have to understand that this season we have a big squad. It will be important to play with freshness because Orlando Pirates will play in many competitions.
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“So, like I said we win games with starting XI, but we win competitions with a group. So, everyone’s contribution will be important this season.
“First of all, I want to say give love to everybody, bring the human being on the table. It is important to put trust on the table and not the playing role as a coach.
“I think the dynamics and the size of the club, the number of competitions that the club will play and the love that the coach is giving can help to keep everybody happy,” concluded the 46-year-old Orlando Pirates mentor.
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