Bafana Bafana midfielder Thalente Mbatha has reflected on his heroics in Friday evening’s clash against Uganda at Orlando Stadium in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Mbatha made a significant impact in his debut for Bafana Bafana at his home ground in Orlando, rescuing the national team from a disappointing defeat.
Introduced late in the second half with South Africa trailing 2-1 against Uganda, the Orlando Pirates star quickly turned the tide. In a dramatic moment, Mbatha found the back of the net in the dying minutes of the match, securing a crucial 2-2 draw for the hosts.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos recognised Mbatha’s impressive form at Pirates and selected him for the national team. Since joining ‘The Sea Robbers’ last season from SuperSport United, Mbatha has consistently delivered strong performances. In his 21 appearances across all competitions for Pirates, he has contributed with one goal and two assists.
THALENTE MBATHA ON HIS BAFANA BAFANA DEBUT
The talented 24-year-old says he was nervous when he was given the opportunity to play. He tried to calm down by playing the kind of football that he’s used to when in action for Pirates.
“At first, I was kind of nervous, but I had told myself that I must try by all means to play my game and be myself,” Mbatha told Orlando Pirates media.
“As the coach said, we are on the team because we deserve it from our performances in the league, and we should work harder now that we are there.”
Mbatha further hopes to get more opportunities to represent Bafana and help the national team succeed. “I want to thank God Almighty because if it wasn’t for him, I wasn’t going to get the opportunity.
“I’m really proud and happy for myself and hope that more [opportunities] are coming,” he added.
Mbatha will be aiming to continue where he left of against Uganda when Bafana face off against South Sudan in their second AFCON qualifier in Group K.
The two nations will battle out for three points on Tuesday, 10 September, at Juba Stadium in Juba, South Sudan. Kickoff is at 3 PM [SA time].
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