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Mbatha Reveals Cup Final Mentality To Prove Himself

  • May 29, 2024
  • 2 min read
  • 158 Views
Mbatha Reveals Cup Final Mentality To Prove Himself

In a bid to secure a permanent move to Orlando Pirates, midfielder Thalente Mbatha reveals his approach of treating every match like a cup final.

Mbatha, born in KwaMashu, joined Pirates on loan from SuperSport United during the January transfer window and has quickly established himself as a valuable asset for the Soweto giants. He even marked his first professional goal in the PSL with a strike in Pirates’ emphatic 4-0 win over Royal AM last month.

Mbatha’s impressive performances alongside either Miguel Timm or Makhehlene Makhaula in central midfield have reportedly convinced Pirates to pursue a permanent signing at the end of the season. This strategy proved successful, as Pirates finished second in the DStv Premiership with 50 points after 30 matches, although they trailed champions Mamelodi Sundowns by a significant 23 points.

“For me it hasn’t been easy because I’m proving myself every game,” said Mbatha. 

“So, I have been playing every game like a cup final as where it will determine my future with the team and everything. So, I think it’s journey that has been competitive and healthy and thanks to the guys for keeping the competition up.”  

Previously at SuperSport, Mbatha struggled for regular playing time due to injuries and competition from Siphesihle Ndlovu and Grant Magerman, according to coach Gavin Hunt. However, Mbatha has silenced his critics at Pirates, starting 11 times in 15 appearances across all competitions.

“I think it all starts at training,” explains Mbatha on his approach to maintaining his impressive form.

“If you take training seriously, then it comes naturally to the matches.”

Regarding his future beyond the loan deal, Mbatha remains uncertain. “At the moment, I don’t have an idea of what it looks like. I will only hear after the season ends,” he said.

Mbatha’s comments came during a Pirates media event held on Tuesday ahead of their Nedbank Cup final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday (15:00).

Picture courtesy of Orlando Pirates

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