Evidence Makgopa: Hugo Broos Issues Challenge to Bafana Striker Following AFCON 2023 Experience

• South Africa coach, Hugo Broos, is confident Evidence Makgopa can improve
• The 23-year-old striker was part of the Bafana Bafana squad at AFCON 2023
• The Orlando Pirates forward scored against Morocco in the Round of 16 game

South Africa's head coach, Hugo Broos, has high expectations for Evidence Makgopa following his recent showing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The forward, showcasing his skills at the continental tournament in Ivory Coast, played a pivotal role in Bafana Bafana's third-place finish.

Broos, clearly impressed by the striker's performances, has acknowledged Makgopa's potential but believes there is still room for improvement.

The Belgian manager, who led the team to their first semi-final since 2000, stressed the need for Makgopa to refine his skills and goal-scoring instincts through individual practice.

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"I have confidence in Evidence [Makgopa]; he can become a very good striker. But again, they [Orlando Pirates] have to work with him, his first control, sometimes," Broos said, as quoted by Far Post.

Makgopa showcased his prowess throughout the tournament, starting in all seven matches.

He contributed an assist in the team's resounding 4-0 victory over Namibia in Group E and also netted a crucial goal in the Round of 16 upset against Morocco.

Jose Riveiro weighs in on Makgopa

Reflecting on the 23-year-old's standout performances at AFCON 2023, his club coach, Jose Riveiro, also noted a significant transformation in the player.

Makgopa has already netted four goals in 23 appearances for Orlando Pirates this season.

"He was in a top continental tournament, competing with many players who [already have] careers in top sides in Europe, seven weeks camping with his teammates and other exceptional players around him," said Riveiro, as reported by Goal.

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In their most recent DSTv Premiership tie, against Mamelodi Sundowns at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on February 17, Riveiro boldly included him in the starting lineup.

The Spanish manager attributes the attacker's progress to exposure to top-level competition and the invaluable experience gained during those weeks in Abidjan.

Steve Sekano also backs Makgopa

Sports Brief has also reported that former Orlando Pirates midfield maestro, Steve Sekano, is confident in Makgopa becoming one of South Africa's premier strikers.

He praised the 23-year-old's improvement but also highlighted areas where he could still improve, particularly in terms of his first touch and his finishing abilities.