Closing the chapter on a seven-year journey with Orlando Pirates, Tshegofatso Mabasa has penned an emotional tribute to the club and its supporters following his confirmed release.
The 29-year-old is now a free agent after the Buccaneers opted against extending his stay at the club when his contract expires at the end of June. He joins the likes of Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Thabiso Lebitso, and Karim Kimvuidi through the exit door, all of whom were announced as leaving the club on Tuesday.
It marks the end of Mabasa’s time at Pirates, punctuated by loan stints at Sekhukhune United, Moroka Swallows and Stellenbosch FC, where he spent the second half of last season. After arriving at the Soweto giants from Bloemfontein Celtic in July 2019, Mabasa went on to become Pirates’ second top goal-scorer ever with 50 goals, and eight fewer than the highest scorer of all time, Benedict Vilakazi.
He bows out as a Betway Premiership champion after contributing a goal in five league games for the Buccaneers during the first half of last term. He also managed three goals in four cup competitions, but was still deemed not good enough by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who then decided to loan him out to the Maroons.
TSHEGOFATSO MABASA EMOTIONAL BUT BOWS OUT OF PIRATES WITH HEAD HELD HIGH
In a heartfelt statement released to the Buccaneers, the striker reflected on his transformative journey from an ambitious newcomer to one of the club’s most decorated modern-day players, expressing deep appreciation for the milestones he has achieved and the indelible bond he has formed with the supporters.
“Eight [seven, sic] years ago, a young man walked through the doors of Rand Stadium with nothing but a dream and a hunger to succeed. Today, I leave this great institution with immense gratitude and pride,” Mabasa said.
“Thank you to Orlando Pirates for giving me the opportunity to be part of a club whose history and legacy will forever remain close to my heart. To every player, coach, staff member, and teammate I shared this journey with, thank you for the memories, friendships, and moments that will stay with me forever.
“From the three-peat in Durban, to the 2023/24 Golden-Boot award, the back-to-back success in Mbombela, that unforgettable night in Cairo, ending the league drought, and celebrating the Club’s second-highest all-time goal scorer with my 50th goal at Orlando; these are memories I will cherish for life.
“To all the faithful Buccaneers, thank you for your unwavering love, support, and belief throughout the years. I am forever grateful. As I take a bow, I wish the club and its supporters nothing but continued success. Thank you for everything.”
PIRATES’ STATEMENT ON MABASA’S DEPARTURE
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that striker Tshegofatso Mabasa will depart the Club following the conclusion of his contract,” said Pirates on Tuesday.
“The Club and the player have mutually agreed to part ways, bringing an end to a chapter that will forever remain part of Orlando Pirates history. Mabasa arrived at the Club in 2019 from Bloemfontein Celtic as a highly rated prospect, eager to prove himself on one of the biggest stages in African football.
“He leaves as a player who has not only worn the famous Black and White with pride, but one who has etched his name into the Club’s history books.
“With 50 goals to his name, Mabasa departs Orlando Pirates ranked second on the Club’s all-time scoring charts – a remarkable achievement that speaks to his quality.
“In a game where strikers are measured by moments, Mabasa gave the Buccaneers many to remember. His instinct in front of goal, composure in key areas, and commitment to the team made him a valuable servant of the Club across different stages of his journey.
“The Club would like to thank Tshegofatso for his service, his contribution, and especially his professionalism. Our best wishes to you, Sniper.”
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