‘I like Pirates’ Makgopa! He is the type of player we don’t have’

Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa is among the players who will be in action for Bafana Bafana in the forthcoming international break.

South Africa will be away against Uganda Cranes on Friday before hosting South Sudan in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Makgopa has struggled with injuries and competition from Tshegofatso Mabasa but has still managed to make an impact. He has six goals in 13 outings for the Buccaneers, and coach Jose Riveiro did not hesitate to give him the opportunity to represent the country. 

Makgopa is a player that Bafana don’t have

“You know I like Evidence; I like him since I’m here because he is a guy with potential and everybody was surprised that he went with us to [2023] Afcon, and they were even more surprised that he played. But I think when you see the performances of Evidence you can only be happy,” the 72-year-old stated.

“So, he’s not a fantastic big player but he’s so useful for the team. And I see it now also in Pirates, I see him playing, he’s so useful for the team, and he starts scoring also. So, he’s confident. He’s the type of player that we don’t have, tall, and good with the head.

“So yes, and again I like him and when the opportunity is there Evidence will always be with us.”

With Burnley’s Lyle Foster out injured, Broos will have to decide on who will lead the line between Mamelodi Sundowns’ Iqraam Rayners and Makgopa.