Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised Evidence Makgopa for taking his opportunity to impress after the striker delivered an outstanding performance in the CAF Champions League victory over Africa Stars.

Makgopa scored twice and provided an assist as Pirates secured a convincing 4-0 win over the Namibian side in the second leg of their second-round preliminary tie at Orlando Stadium on Friday. The result gave the Buccaneers a 5-0 aggregate victory and secured their place in the Champions League group stage for the second time in three seasons.

The 26-year-old striker had missed most of Pirates’ opening matches this season because of injury. However, he made the most of his opportunity, giving Ouaddou another option in attack ahead of the group stage.

Ouaddou explained that Makgopa had not played regularly since last season, making his performance particularly pleasing. The coach was impressed by the striker’s movement, ability to find space and contribution to the team’s attacking play.

He also highlighted Makgopa’s improvement in holding up the ball between the lines, allowing his teammates to join the attack and create more scoring opportunities.

Ouaddou said the striker’s performance was positive news for Pirates because several forwards are now contributing goals. He mentioned Boitumelo Radiopane, Yanela Mbuthuma, Sebastian Pedersen and Sifiso Luthuli as other attacking options available to him.

The Pirates coach believes having several players in good form will help him manage his squad during the demanding Champions League group stage, where rotation could prove important.

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed confidence in his team’s chances of winning the CAF Champions League following Mamelodi Sundowns’ elimination from the competition.

Ouaddou said Sundowns’ exit had created an opportunity for Pirates to pursue continental glory. He added that the Buccaneers are eager to win the competition and add a second CAF Champions League star to their jersey, believing the team now has a better chance of achieving that goal this season.

Pirates will now turn their attention to the group stage, where they will aim to build on their impressive performance against Africa Stars and challenge for the continental title.

For Ouaddou, Makgopa’s return to form could be a major boost as the Soweto giants look to compete on multiple fronts and bring more success to the club.

Source: IDiskiTimes