New Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has explained his call-up of Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma, and insisted he should be given chance.
Mosimane’s sentiments come as he has included the Pirates forward in the final squad to face Guinea and Eritrea in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers later this month.
It’s the first time since June 2025 that the 24-year-old is in the senior national team. Mbuthuma had endured criticism from his club fan base, especially this season for not scoring and assisting, however his coach Abdeslam Ouaddou kept faith in him.
And recently the former Richards Bay striker has found his scoring boots, scoring twice in the league, providing assists in the MTN 8 helping Pirates reach a fifth successive final and also in the CAF Champions League.
Mosimane said the striker has other qualities and is showing hunger, when asked why he decided to call a player who by parts of his own fan base was labelled as an “enemy”.
“Well, I don’t know what other people are saying and I don’t know why people brand him as an enemy,” said Mosimane.
“I think he’s a national team player. He scores goals for Orlando Pirates. I think you’ve seen him scoring few goals in Orlando Stadium.
“And yes, maybe he’s not scoring as much as you want, but he does score and he’s got a physical presence also and he’s hungry.
“Give him a chance.”