Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Sibusiso Vilakazi has praised Orlando Pirates midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi following his impressive goal in the club’s dominant 3-0 win over Stade d’Abidjan in the CAF Champions League. Maswanganyi, who has been steadily growing into one of the standout players for Pirates this season, showcased his skill and confidence with a clinical finish that helped secure the win for his team.
The 25-year-old has faced his fair share of challenges, including injuries and inconsistencies in past seasons, which led some to question whether he could fully reach his potential. However, recent performances, particularly his goal against Stade d’Abidjan, have shown that he is getting back to his best. Maswanganyi’s contribution to the victory was significant, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Vilakazi among those impressed by his form.
Maswanganyi’s goal against Stade d’Abidjan was a perfect display of his talent and composure. The midfielder picked up a well-placed ball inside the box, controlled it with ease, and calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper to extend Pirates’ lead. It wasn’t just the goal, though—his overall play was sharp, creative, and full of flair, qualities that have made him one of the more exciting players in the PSL.
“I’ve always known Patrick had great potential,” said Vilakazi in a post-match interview. “He has a style of play that makes him stand out, and we’re finally starting to see him express that on the pitch. The goal he scored was a great example of his quality, and if he continues like this, he could be a standout player not only in South Africa but internationally as well.”
What’s particularly impressive is how Maswanganyi has earned his place in the Pirates squad despite the stiff competition in the attacking department. With players like Deon Hotto, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Monnapule Saleng all vying for starting spots, Maswanganyi’s ability to perform consistently is a testament to his hard work and determination to make an impact in coach Jose Riveiro’s plans.
Many Pirates supporters have been asking whether Maswanganyi—who was affectionately given the nickname “Tito” by fans for his flair and creative style—is truly back to his best. The nickname reflects the high hopes that were placed on him when he first arrived at the club, thanks to his skill and ability to change games with a single touch.
While Maswanganyi has had a few difficult seasons, marred by injuries and a struggle for consistent form, this season seems to be different. His performance in the current campaign has given fans hope that the “Tito” they fell in love with is finally back. The midfielder’s creativity, dribbling, and vision are once again becoming central to Pirates’ attacking play, and he’s proving himself as one of the team’s most dangerous players.
As Orlando Pirates aim for success both in the CAF Champions League and the DStv Premiership, players like Maswanganyi will be key to their ambitions. If he can maintain his current form and stay injury-free, he has the potential to become one of the top players in African football. His ability to create and score goals is exactly what Pirates need to challenge for silverware on the domestic and continental fronts.
For now, Maswanganyi’s resurgence is a welcome sight for the club, and with praise from figures like Vilakazi, it’s clear that the midfielder’s stock is on the rise.
“Patrick has all the qualities to become one of the best in the PSL,” Vilakazi added. “If he continues performing like this, there’s no telling how far he can go.”
As Orlando Pirates look to build on their recent successes, Maswanganyi’s role will become increasingly important. Whether or not he’s fully back to his best remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—his star is on the rise, and he could play a major part in the club’s success this season.
