Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised striker Evidence Makgopa for making the most of his chance after a standout display in the CAF Champions League win over Africa Stars. Makgopa scored twice and set up another goal as Pirates won the second leg of their second preliminary round tie 4-0 at Orlando Stadium on Friday. The result gave the Buccaneers a 5-0 win on aggregate and secured their place in the group stage for the second time in three seasons.

The 26-year-old had missed most of Pirates' opening matches this season because of injury, so the performance meant even more. Ouaddou pointed out that Makgopa had not played regularly since last season. He was pleased with the striker's movement, his ability to find space and the way he added to the team's attacking play. The coach also noted that Makgopa has improved at holding up the ball between the lines, which gives teammates time to join the attack and creates more chances to score.

For Ouaddou, the performance is good news because several forwards are now finding the net. He named Boitumelo Radiopane, Yanela Mbuthuma, Sebastian Pedersen and Sifiso Luthuli as other attacking options in his squad. He believes having so many players in good form will help him manage the team through the demanding group stage, where rotating the squad could be important.

Ouaddou has also spoken about the team's chances in the competition after Mamelodi Sundowns were knocked out. He said their exit has opened up an opportunity for Pirates to chase continental glory. The Buccaneers want to win the tournament and add a second CAF Champions League star to their jersey, and the coach believes they now have a better chance of doing so this season.

Pirates will now turn their attention to the group stage, where they will hope to build on the win over Africa Stars. With Makgopa back in form and competition for places in attack growing, Ouaddou has more options as the Soweto giants look to compete on several fronts.

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/ouaddou-singles-out-returning-pirates-star/