Why Mabasa and Makgopa Were Benched: The Shocking Truth Behind Orlando Pirates’ Striker Drama — Is RadioPANE the New Kingpin or Just a Flash in the Pan?
Orlando Pirates kicked off their season with a solid 2-0 victory over Bulu City, but the big talking point wasn’t the scoreline—it was the absence of two key strikers, Thembinkosi Mabasa and Vincent Makgopa.
Both players had been mainstays in the Pirates’ frontline last season, yet neither featured in the matchday squad for this opener.
This raised eyebrows and sparked a wave of speculation among fans and pundits alike.
So, why did Mabasa and Makgopa sit out?
The simplest explanation lies in the remarkable depth that Orlando Pirates have cultivated for the 2025/26 season.
With a squad swelling to over 80 players, the club boasts a wealth of talent, especially in attacking positions.
The head coach’s message to the media was clear: having the luxury of multiple quality strikers means not everyone can be on the pitch at the same time.
It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Consider the numbers from last season.
Makgopa contributed 10 goals and 2 assists across 39 games, while Mabasa notched up 15 goals and an assist in 48 appearances.
These are solid returns, but with the addition of new signings like Lutuli and the emergence of players like RadioPANE, competition for the striker role is fiercer than ever.
Orlando Pirates typically deploy a system where only one striker starts, with another coming off the bench.
That means only two of the five or more available forwards see game time in a match.
This naturally leaves some players sidelined for certain fixtures, especially in a squad as large as Pirates’.
Interestingly, Mabasa was spotted captaining the team during a friendly match earlier that Saturday morning, which ended in a 1-1 draw against City.
This hints at the club’s rotation strategy—players not featuring in the competitive match still get valuable minutes in friendlies to maintain fitness and sharpness.
The real star of the opening game was RadioPANE, who impressed many with his dynamic play.
Unlike a static striker who lingers in one spot, RadioPANE showcased a modern approach—dropping deep, linking play, and creating opportunities not just for himself but for others.
His composure, skillful first touch, and speed make him a versatile threat.
One memorable moment saw him weave through two or three defenders before delivering a precise pass to a teammate, exemplifying his ability to both score and assist.
This style contrasts with more traditional strikers who rely solely on finishing chances.
RadioPANE’s willingness to serve teammates and facilitate attacking moves adds a new dimension to the Pirates’ offense.
Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that if he remains injury-free—a hurdle that has plagued him in the past—he could become the club’s go-to striker.
Injury history is a critical factor here.
RadioPANE has battled fitness issues throughout his career, which have limited his impact despite his clear talent.
Now, with several months of consistent play under his belt, his confidence appears to be rising.
This could be the season he finally realizes his full potential.
The intense competition among strikers means that only one can claim the starting spot consistently.
Mabasa, Makgopa, RadioPANE, Lutuli, and others are all vying for limited minutes.
This inevitably leads to tough decisions by the coaching staff and high-stakes battles for form and favor.
While some fans may lament seeing beloved players like Mabasa and Makgopa left out, the club’s philosophy is clear: success comes from the collective strength of the squad, not just individual stars.
Managing player freshness across multiple competitions is vital, and rotating strikers helps maintain peak performance.
Yet, this strategy isn’t without risks.
Strikers thrive on rhythm and confidence, which can be disrupted by irregular playing time.
The coaching team will need to balance squad rotation with giving key players enough minutes to build momentum.
Beyond the tactical considerations, there’s an emotional aspect.
Mabasa, wearing the captain’s armband in the friendly, symbolizes leadership and experience.
His absence from the competitive match might reflect a strategic choice rather than a demotion, but it inevitably fuels speculation about his future role.
Makgopa’s case is similar—while his goal contributions last season were respectable, the arrival of new talent pushes him to fight harder for his place.
The pressure cooker environment at Pirates means only the fittest, most in-form players will regularly feature.
Looking ahead, the question remains: who will emerge as the definitive number one striker?
RadioPANE’s early-season form places him at the front of the queue, but the season is long, and football is unpredictable.
Injuries, form fluctuations, and tactical shifts could all reshape the pecking order.
For now, the Pirates faithful can take comfort in knowing their team has options.
Depth in attack is a luxury not every club enjoys, and it could prove decisive in a grueling season filled with league matches and cup competitions.
RadioPANE’s blend of skill, work rate, and creativity offers a fresh attacking threat.
If he can maintain fitness and sharpen his clinical edge, he might just be the breakthrough star Pirates need.
But the journey is far from over, and the drama surrounding Mabasa and Makgopa’s sidelining adds an intriguing subplot to an already compelling season narrative.
Ultimately, the Pirates’ striker saga is a microcosm of modern football’s challenges: balancing individual ambitions with team goals, managing squad depth, and navigating the fine line between strategy and sentiment.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these dynamics play out on the pitch—and whether RadioPANE can truly seize his moment in the spotlight.
