What sets Radiopane apart? Ex-Pirates star Mark Mayambela weighs in

Former Orlando Pirates star Mark Mayambela has explained what makes striker Boitumelo Radiopane a standout player at the Soweto giants.

Mayambela’s comments come after the 23-year-old forward put in a strong performance in Pirates’ season opener, a 2-0 MTN8 quarter-final victory over Polokwane City FC last Saturday.

Radiopane started the match at Orlando Stadium and played for 60 minutes, assisting the opening goal for Oswin Appollis in the 13th minute.

Last season, the talented forward made 15 appearances across all competitions for Pirates and scored one goal, following his return to the club after his loan spell at Cape Town Spurs in the 2023/24 campaign.

Mayambela praised Radiopane for his versatility, calling him a striker who gives defenders problems and is a “player every coach would love to work with.”

He explained that Radiopane’s ability to combine good footwork with intelligent runs off the ball sets him apart from other forwards at the club, who include Tshegofatso Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, and Yanela Mbuthuma.

Mayambela told SoccerBeat that Radiopane “gives you variation.” He explained, “He’s good on his feet and also threatens the last line with runs from behind. I think this is what the coach wants. For me, he’s the modern striker that many coaches would want. He’s someone who is multi-functional in that position.”

“You don’t want someone who is only good at heading or only good at crossing,” Mayambela continued. “So, you want someone who is good at heading and crossing, good at dropping, making runs behind, and making the team play as well. Radiopane fits this profile.”