Mabasa ready to embrace pressure as Pirates chase fourth straight MTN8 crown

ORLANDO Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa says his side are well accustomed to the pressure of big matches as they chase a historic fourth consecutive MTN8 crown when they take on Stellenbosch FC at a sold-out Mbombela Stadium on Saturday (6pm kickoff).

- OBAKENG MELETSE

While he hasn’t been part of all of Pirates’ previous triumphs, Mabasa is eager to play his role in extending that dominance. Under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who will oversee his first final since joining the club, the 28-year-old forward has embraced the challenge of defending their crown.

Although yet to make a major impact this season — with just one appearance in the MTN8 — Mabasa is determined to play his part and has an eye on the club’s all-time scoring record. He is currently six goals away from Benedict Vilakazi’s longstanding tally of 52.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s showdown, Mabasa expressed his excitement at the opportunity to make history again.

“Playing in a cup final is what each and every player wants to do in their careers,” Mabasa said, ahead of the clash.