Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has defended his decision to call up striker Evidence Makgopa to the national team.
The 25-year-old Orlando Pirates striker replaced Mamelodi Sundowns forward Iqraam Rayners on Tuesday.
Despite Makgopa scoring just once this season, the Belgian-coach explained why “Ngwana Sesi” got the selection. Makgopa has been part of the Bafana Bafana team for two years and was impressive during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
“I don’t think I have to make a big explanation of what he can [do] and not,” Broos said.
“When we went two years ago to Afcon, everybody was asking ‘what is Makgopa doing in there’. And you saw which role he played in Afcon.”
Broos hails Makgopa
Makgopa did not get selected during last month’s World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Lesotho. Rayners and Lyle Foster were the main strikers but with the former out due to medical reasons, it has opened doors for the lanky Pirates striker.
“There are many people who underestimate Makgopa – he’s not Messi, he’s not Ronaldo. But he’s a guy who can be very helpful for a team. He showed it two years ago in AFCON.
“When Iqraam had to leave the camp, I didn’t doubt to call Evidence. Because I know if I will need him tomorrow, he will help us enormously,” Broos said.
Makgopa is likely to start from the bench against Zimbabwe as Bafana look to qualify for their first World Cup in 15 years. Broos knows nothing but a win on Friday will put his side in a perfect position.
