Tshegofatso Mabasa reacts to not being called up to the Bafana Bafana squad! | OneFootball

The Orlando Pirates striker has some very clear reasons.

Tshegofatso Mabasa reacts to not being called up to the Bafana Bafana squad!

For any footballer, the call to represent their nation is the ultimate honour. For Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, that call has become a recurring near-miss, a source of professional pain that he carries even as he finds the net for his club. Despite a compelling goalscoring record, the 29-year-old has found himself on the outside of the national team setup, a situation he describes with poignant honesty.

"It is very painful because I generally make the preliminary squads," Mabasa confessed, highlighting the cruel cycle of raised hopes and subsequent disappointment. The recent preliminary squad for the World Cup qualifiers was another chapter in this story he was named, only to be omitted from the final list once more. "But I am just unfortunate never to make the cut for the final one."

Yet, within this frustration, Mabasa has forged a resilient optimism. Instead of succumbing to despair, he looks to the journeys of those around him for inspiration. The comeback stories of his peers serve as a powerful reminder that a path back exists. "I still believe my chance will come, though," he stated, his focus unwavering. "I am inspired by the example of Sipho Mbule, who has made it back into the squad."

His dream remains vivid and specific: to grace the Africa Cup of Nations stage. With the next tournament looming, the dream feels more urgent than ever. "It is definitely a dream," he shared, his voice likely filled with the weight of childhood memories. "I grew up watching the tournament, and I have a memory of watching Benni McCarthy doing his thing, and it made me want to be a part of that one day."

This isn't a dream built on mere wishful thinking, but on a foundation of hard work and a lesson in patience learned during his time at Sekhukhune United. He understands that his fate rests in his consistent performances at club level. "I am hopeful, and I know it will happen if I keep on doing my work at the club," Mabasa affirmed.

Drawing another parallel to a teammate's perseverance, he added, "I look at Evidence and I realise that if you work diligently, the selectors will eventually recognise you." For now, Mabasa's strategy is clear: let his goals do the talking and trust that his relentless dedication will, one day, force the national team door wide open.