Hugo Broos justifies Evidence Makgopa selection | OneFootball

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Broos sets record straight on Makgopa selection

Photo: Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has defended his inclusion of Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa in his latest squad.

The 25-year-old front man replaced Mamelodi Sundowns center-forward Iqraam Rayners, who cited medical reasons to leave camp.

As has become the norm, Makgopa's call-up was met with a lot of discontent and scrutiny from a section of the South African football fraternity.

Now, the Belgian mentor has set the record straight on recalling the lanky forward, highlighting his immense yet unfancied contribution during the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast.

“I don't think I have to make a big explanation about what he can [do] or what he cannot [do]. When we went to AFCON two years ago, everyone was asking what is Makgopa doing in that team and you saw which role he played in AFCON,” said Broos.

"So, there are many people who underestimate Makgopa - he is not Messi, he is not Ronaldo and all that. But he is a guy who can be very helpful for the team and he showed that two years ago in AFCON.

"So, when Iqraam asked to leave the camp, I didn't doubt to call Evidence again because I know if I need him tomorrow [Friday] he will help us enormously.

Makgopa has so far made 11 appearances across all competitions for Pirates this season, chipping in with a solitary goal and three assists.