Orlando Pirates legend Steve Lekoelea has thrown his weight behind coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s decision to reinstate Evidence Makgopa into the starting lineup, insisting the title race could look far different if the striker had been given more minutes from the off. Makgopa delivered immediately, scoring in Pirates’ 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC after being handed a start following concerns raised by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. That result kept Orlando Pirates within two points of league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who face Kaizer Chiefs in a crucial midweek clash. Lekoelea did not hold back in his assessment, telling KickOff that Pirates would be “talking about a different story” if Makgopa had started in previous matches, though he acknowledged Sundowns are “usually unstoppable” at this stage, warning that Pirates must win all three remaining games with only five kilometers left to the finish line.
The 25-year-old forward has recorded five goals and three assists across 20 appearances this season, amassing over 860 minutes on the pitch. His efficiency stands at roughly one goal contribution every 108 minutes, a rate that underscores his value despite often being deployed as an impact substitute. While rotating with other forwards, Makgopa has consistently made his presence felt when called upon, and his performance against Stellenbosch reinforced the argument that he deserves a more prominent role in the run-in.
Beyond domestic duties, Makgopa remains a key figure for Bafana Bafana, having featured in three matches during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in early 2026. He scored in the Round of 16 against Cameroon, further highlighting his ability to deliver on big stages. With the league title still mathematically alive, Ouaddou’s decision to trust Makgopa from the first whistle may prove decisive in the season’s final sprint.