Hugo Broos’ challenge to Evidence Makgopa after AFCON experience

Hugo Broos has thrown a demanding challenge at the Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa, who was part of the Bafana Bafana squad at AFCON.

The 23-year-old served humble pies to many who had questioned his inclusion, scoring a crucial goal in a Round of 16 clash against Morocco, where Bafana won 2-0 to seal the quarter-final spot.

Makgopa, who has been made the main man upfront in the absence of Lyle Foster, who wasn’t part of the AFCON squad, has been commended by Broos for his displays at the continental showpiece. 

But the 71-year-old coach feels the centre-forward has room to improve and “become better”.

He suggested that Makgopa needs more individual practice in order to hone his frontman skills and goal-scoring instincts.  

HUGO BROOS BELIEVES HAS POTENTIAL TO BECOME BETTER

“I have confidence in Evidence [Makgopa], he can become a very good striker,” said Broos.

“But again, they [Orlando Pirates] have to work with him, his first control, sometimes [could be better].

“Maybe those are things [individuals training] that can make the [PSL] level much higher because you make your players better. Okay, I think Evidence did very well [at AFCON].”

Meanwhile, Pirates mentor Jose Riveiro recently claimed that Makgopa returned from AFCON as a different player. He believes the seven-week camp with the national team built more confidence in the Ga-Mampane-born.

‘HE’S NOT THE SAME PLAYER ANYMORE’ – RIVEIRO ON MAKGOPA

“Absolutely, but I’m not saying this because I know the differences already, but obviously, he’s not the same player anymore [like before AFCON],” said Riveiro in Pretoria.

“He was in a top continental tournament, competing with many players who are playing for top sides in Europe. He spent seven weeks camping with his exceptional [Bafana] teammates around him.

“So, all of those experiences obviously will play a big role in Evidence’s career. He finally got the opportunity that probably we were looking for since he signed for Pirates.

“One year ago, for many reasons, it was impossible and not because he didn’t try. Like I explained it many times, he didn’t start the season with the same opportunity as everybody else. But, now it’s his moment, and I think he’s using his moment very well.”

RELATED STORY: Ex-Pirates star offers advice to Makgopa after AFCON experience