“Give Him A Chance”: Pitso Mosimane Fires Back At Critics After Shock Mbuthuma Selection
Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has defended his decision to call up Yanela Mbuthuma, acknowledging that while the forward may not be scoring as frequently as fans would like, his overall goal contributions speak for themselves.
Mbuthuma has faced heavy criticism from Orlando Pirates supporters for missing gilt-edged chances, including during their recent victory over Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium. However, the 24-year-old striker has proven to be a key difference-maker across four recent matches, tallying three goals and two assists.
He provided two assists as Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United 3-0 [4-0 on aggregate] in the MTN8 semi-final second leg at Orlando Amstel Arena on 29 August.
Mbuthuma then came off the bench to score twice in a 4-0 victory over Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on 1 September.
Most recently, he found the net with a powerful header as Pirates beat La Cure Waves of Mauritius 3-1 (3-1 on aggregate) in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.
These decisive contributions earned the striker his maiden national team call-up on Thursday for the upcoming extended FIFA international window, where South Africa will play two 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers alongside a friendly against Egypt. Mbuthuma steps into the squad to replace the injured Evidence Makgopa.
“Well, I don’t know what other people are saying, and I don’t know why people brand him as an enemy,” Mosimane said.
“I think he’s a national team player. He scores goals for Orlando Pirates. I think you’ve seen him scoring a few goals at Orlando Stadium. And yes, maybe he’s not scoring as much as you want, but he does score goals, he’s got a physical presence, and he’s hungry, man. Give him a chance.”
Bafana Bafana open their 2027 AFCON Group D qualifying campaign against Guinea at the Orlando Amstel Arena on 26 September before traveling to Egypt to face Eritrea at a neutral venue on 30 September.
South Africa will conclude the FIFA window with a friendly against Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium on 4 October.
