In a recent statement, retired midfielder Thuso Phala has sparked conversations about Orlando Pirates’ potential for the 2024/25 PSL season.

According to Phala, the team may face significant challenges if they continue to miss out on contributions from a key trio.

Pirates’ Strong Start

Orlando Pirates have begun the new season on a high note, emerging as serious contenders for the Betway Premiership title.

Their impressive start contrasts sharply with the struggles of the defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sundowns have faced difficulties this season, particularly in the MTN8, where they were knocked out early and have scored only one goal in their three matches—an own goal against Polokwane City FC in the quarter-finals.

Concerns Over Missing Players

Despite Pirates’ promising start, Phala has voiced concerns about their ability to maintain their form without three crucial players: Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Tshegofatso Mabasa.

According to Phala, the absence of these players could severely impact the team’s performance and their chances of success.

Last season, this trio played pivotal roles for Pirates, earning them significant accolades at the PSL Awards.

Maswanganyi was named the DStv Prem Player’s Player of the Season, Midfielder of the Season, and Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament.

Mabasa took home the DStv Prem Top Goal Scorer award with 16 goals, while Mofokeng was recognized as the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player and DStv Prem Young Player of the Season.

Phala’s Playful Challenge

Phala has humorously suggested that even his Sunday social team could pose a challenge to Pirates in the absence of these key players.

“I think with my Sunday social team, we can try to challenge them [Pirates],” Phala told NedbankSport.

“They can defeat us, but we will try to put up a fight.

For me, without those three players, nothing good will happen [for the ‘Bucs’ this season].”

Upcoming Challenges for Pirates

This season, Orlando Pirates will compete in five different competitions.

Domestically, they will be participating in the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup, Betway Premiership, and the Nedbank Cup.

Additionally, they are set to compete in the CAF Champions League, where they will face some of Africa’s top clubs if they advance to the group stages.

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