Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa has reflected on living the dream of playing in his second successive AFCON with Bafana Bafana.
Makgopa is part of the Bafana squad participating in the ongoing 2025 Nations Cup in Morocco, as they look to lift the trophy for the first time since 1996. The lanky forward was an unused substitute when South Africa claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Angola in the opening match of Group B on Monday.
Bafana collected maximum points thanks to goals from Oswin Appollis and Lyle Foster in each half. In a match against Angola, Bafana coach Hugo Broos preferred Foster, who is plying his trade in the English Premier League with Burnley FC, to lead the attack.
Meanwhile, Makgopa—who played a pivotal role in Bafana Bafana’s bronze-medal campaign in Côte d’Ivoire—is determined to lead the line as South Africa chases a historic second AFCON title.”
WHAT MAKGOPA SAID ABOUT PLAYING HIS SECOND AFCON
The Limpopo-born striker earned the ticket to the 2025 AFCON after displaying an impressive run of form with Pirates as they won the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup titles in the first round of the current domestic 2025/26 campaign. He has made 18 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing three assists.
Speaking ahead of the crucial clash against Egypt on Boxing Day, Makgopa expressed his delight at playing in the second AFCON, revealing that many players would have loved to be in his position.
“I think I’m living my dream, so that’s what matters right now because it’s my second AFCON. I think other players would have loved to be here, and I’m glad that I have been chosen to represent my country,” Makgopa said.
Moreover, Makgopa has opened up on missing out on the Bafana squad in the past few months leading up to the AFCON. “I think being out of the Bafana squad was because of the injuries I had, but they were minor injuries.”
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