Ouaddou Hails Makgopa as Pirates Star Rediscovers His Scoring Touch in CAF Champions League Rout

Ouaddou Hails Makgopa as Pirates Star Rediscovers His Scoring Touch in CAF Champions League Rout

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised Evidence Makgopa following the striker’s impressive return to the starting line-up, as the Buccaneers stormed into the CAF Champions League group stages with a convincing victory over African Stars.

The Soweto giants delivered a commanding performance at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday night, defeating the Namibian champions 4-0 in the second leg of their second preliminary-round encounter to secure a comprehensive 5-0 aggregate victory.

Makgopa was among the standout performers, scoring twice to underline his importance to the Pirates attack and give Ouaddou another valuable option ahead of the demanding continental campaign.

Makgopa Rewards Ouaddou’s Faith

The Bafana Bafana international found the back of the net just before half-time before completing his brace in the 77th minute, capping an impressive individual display.

His contribution was particularly significant after an injury-disrupted start to the 2026/27 season, which had limited his opportunities to feature regularly for the Buccaneers.

Ouaddou was delighted with the striker’s performance, highlighting his movement, positional awareness and ability to bring teammates into the game.

The Pirates coach explained that Makgopa had been given an opportunity to prove himself and did exactly what was expected of him.

According to Ouaddou, the striker’s ability to occupy spaces and link up with other attacking players made a considerable difference to the team’s overall performance.

The coach also emphasised the importance of Makgopa improving his hold-up play and positioning between the opposition’s defensive and midfield lines.

Increased Competition in Pirates’ Attack

Makgopa’s return provides a timely boost for Pirates as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts this season.

Ouaddou has previously stressed the importance of having several reliable goalscorers within his squad, particularly with the challenges associated with balancing domestic competitions and continental football.

The coach welcomed the growing competition among his forwards, with Boitumelo Radiopane, Yanela Mbuthuma, Sebastian Pedersen and Sifiso Luthuli also providing attacking options.

With several players capable of contributing in the final third, Pirates could benefit from greater squad rotation without significantly compromising their attacking threat.

Pirates Turn Attention to Continental Ambitions

The victory over African Stars represents an important milestone for Ouaddou, who guided the Buccaneers into the Champions League group stages after their disappointing preliminary-round exit last season.

The Soweto giants will now aim to make a strong impression against Africa’s leading clubs as they pursue continental success.

For Makgopa, the brace could prove to be a turning point in his campaign. If he maintains his fitness and scoring form, the striker could become an influential figure in Pirates’ ambitions for the 2026/27 season.

Source https://x.com/i/status/2114602482563158507