Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has responded to questions over being left out of the Bafana Bafana squad to face Nigeria in crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, as Orlando Pirates prepare for the final of the Nedbank Cup.
Mabasa was on the score sheet as Pirates played to a 1-1 draw against SuperSport United on Saturday at Orlando Stadium.
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The 27-year-old scored what would be his 16th goal of the season, beating Stellenbosch FC striker Iqraam Rayners in the race for the Golden Boot award.
For all his efforts, Mabasa was a surprise omission from the latest 36-man preliminary Bafana Bafana squad to take on Nigeria and Zimbabwe in June.
Tshegofatso Mabasa in the #DStvPrem for Pirates since his return:?? vs Chiefs? vs Sekhukhune??? vs Arrows? vs AmaZulu?? vs Cape Town City?? vs Chippa United????'?????????? ???????????????? ??@SamsungSA pic.twitter.com/H9CQZ1cnYw
— SuperSport Football ?? (@SSFootball) May 9, 2024
Speaking to media ahead of Pirates' clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the final of the Nedbank Cup, the big centre-forward said he was not too worried about the national team selection.
"In all honesty, not really," Mabasa responded.
"Yes, each and every player wants to play for the national team, but I believe if it's meant to happen, it will happen.
"Look at 'Mshishi' (Themba Zwane) and what happened with him. I mean, he wasn't selected at all and now he's being selected each and every camp.
"So, for me, it's not something I think about a lot. Yes, I've been doing well. Like I say, if it's meant to happen, it will happen."
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Bafana will take on the Super Eagles on 7 June in Uyo, Nigeria, before returning home to host Zimbabwe on 11 June in Bloemfontein.
Before that, Pirates will be aiming to successfully defend their Nedbank Cup title when they meet Sundowns at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.
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