Kaizer Chiefs and Stellies miss out as Mabasa is unveiled in Morocco

After a period of uncertainty following his departure from Orlando Pirates, striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has officially secured his next career move, signing a three-year contract with Moroccan side Maghreb de Fes.

The powerful forward spent the latter half of last season on loan at Stellenbosch FC after falling out of favour at Pirates, where Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma were preferred in the attack.

Upon his return from the loan spell, it became clear that the former Bloemfontein Celtic player would need to find a new club to continue his career. This move ends his time with the Buccaneers, where he stands as the club’s second-highest goalscorer, trailing only the legendary Benedict Vilakazi.

Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch linked

Kaizer Chiefs were interested in Tshegofatso Mabasa. Photo: Stellies

Throughout the transfer window, Mabasa was linked with several teams. Locally, Kaizer Chiefs were reportedly interested, while Stellenbosch FC were also keen, while clubs in Iraq and Turkiye also showed interest, but no agreements were reached.

It has now been confirmed that the 29-year-old has completed his transfer to Maghreb de Fes. The Botola Pro League champions reportedly made a compelling offer, which could represent the most significant contract of Mabasa’s career.

Mabasa travelled to the North African nation on Sunday to finalise the transfer and on Monday, he was unveiled, beginning a new chapter in his career. He will make history as the first South African to play for the club.

Mabasa to add goals and experience

Tshegofatso Mabasa has chosen Morocco champions Maghreb de Fes.

The move also presents an opportunity for continental football, as Maghreb de Fes will compete in the CAF Champions League. The draw for the preliminary rounds is scheduled to take place in Cairo on Thursday.

Mabasa left Pirates after making 141 appearances, scoring 50 goals, just two behind the club’s leading scorer Benedict Vilakazi (52), while also providing six assists in all competitions.

In the Premier Soccer League, ‘The Snipper’ made 249 appearances, scoring 74 goals and weighing in with 11 assists during his spells at Pirates, Sekhukhune United, Bloemfontein Celtic, Swallows and Stellenbosch.