Lehlohonolo Majoro backs Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma despite goal criticism

Former Bafana Bafana striker Lehlohonolo Majoro has defended Orlando Pirates forward Yanela Mbuthuma, saying the striker’s contribution should not be judged solely by the number of goals he scores.

Majoro made his comments during the 117th episode of the Arena Sports Show, where he appeared alongside former footballer Hlompho Kekana. The programme was hosted by Clauiee Grace Mpanza and Mahlatse Mphahlele.

Mbuthuma has come under criticism for being short of goals, but Majoro believes the Orlando Pirates striker offers the team important qualities in other areas of the game.

“We are used to a striker as a person who just scores goals,” said Majoro, who was discussing the hugely anticipated Betway Premiership meeting between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Majoro argued that a forward’s responsibilities extend beyond finishing chances. He said Mbuthuma works hard when Orlando Pirates do not have possession and helps the team attempt to win the ball back quickly.

“As a striker, you have a role that you play within the team in defence and attack. I believe Mbuthuma is one of the strikers that is selfless and does hard labour in terms of helping the team to quickly regain the ball.

“There are players who do a lot of things in the game and it requires a person to watch with a different eye. I am not saying strikers are not judged on goals,” he said.

The former Bafana Bafana forward acknowledged that goals remain a central measure of a striker’s effectiveness. He explained that players are assessed at the end of a season by comparing their appearances with their goals, while also stressing that coaches may evaluate performances in a broader way.

“At the end of the season, they check the number of games you played against goals that you scored. This is still what determines a good striker, but a coach looks at the game differently.”

Majoro’s comments came as he and Kekana discussed Saturday’s Betway Premiership clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns. The match will be played at FNB Stadium.

His defence of Mbuthuma highlighted the different ways a striker can influence a match. While goals remain an important part of the position, Majoro said a player’s defensive effort, willingness to work for the team and ability to contribute to regaining possession must also be considered.

The discussion placed the scrutiny on Mbuthuma’s goal return in the context of his wider role for Orlando Pirates, with Majoro urging supporters to assess the striker’s overall contribution rather than focusing only on his scoring record.