Hugo Broos Defends Recall of Evidence Makgopa to Bafana Bafana Squad

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has stood firm on his decision to recall Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa to the national team. Makgopa replaces Iqraam Rayners, who withdrew from the squad due to medical reasons ahead of South Africa’s final two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

Speaking at a press conference in Durban on Thursday, Broos said he had full confidence in the 25-year-old forward. He reminded critics that Makgopa has proven his worth in the national setup before.

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

Broos, who guided Bafana Bafana to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, said many underestimate Makgopa’s value to the team. He highlighted the striker’s tactical importance, strength, and discipline.

“So, there are many people who underestimate Makgopa. He is not Messi, he is not Ronaldo, I know that. But he is a guy who can be very helpful for the team, and he showed that. He showed it two years ago in AFCON,” he said.

The Belgian coach added that Makgopa’s work rate and familiarity with Bafana’s system made him the logical replacement once Rayners was ruled out.

“When Iqraam had to leave the camp, I didn’t doubt to call back again Evidence because I know if I will need him tomorrow, that he will help us enormously,” Broos concluded.

Makgopa’s recall comes as South Africa prepares for two decisive fixtures that could determine their path to the 2026 World Cup. Both matches are crucial as Bafana aim to finish the qualifying round strongly and maintain their upward trajectory under Broos.

The Orlando Pirates striker now faces competition for a starting role from Lyle Foster and Mohau Nkota. His inclusion adds depth and experience to the frontline, something Broos sees as key in the high-stakes qualifiers ahead.

Makgopa’s return not only strengthens Bafana’s attacking options but also reinforces Broos’s long-term vision of building a balanced, resilient squad capable of competing against Africa’s best.