South Africa coach Hugo Broos voices frustration over Makgopa’s struggles

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has admitted growing concern over the lack of game time for striker Evidence Makgopa at Orlando Pirates, warning that the forward’s inactivity could complicate his plans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Makgopa, who has been one of Broos’s trusted attacking options for the national team, is currently enduring a difficult spell at club level, spending extended periods on the bench or outside matchday squads entirely.

Speaking on 947’s MSW sports show, Broos did not hide his disappointment at Makgopa’s lack of minutes and the uncertainty surrounding his role at Pirates.

The Belgian tactician suggested that the situation is becoming a serious concern as he prepares for final squad decisions ahead of the global tournament.

“And sometimes I’m surprised to see players who don’t play suddenly anymore. They’re on the bench or they’re not even on the bench, they’re on the stands. And I say what happens now?” Broos said.

He specifically highlighted Makgopa as an example of a player whose club situation is now affecting national team planning.

“I can give you an example Makgopa don’t play anymore in Pirates. What is the reason? That makes my job difficult,” he added.

Broos further stressed the risks of selecting players who have not featured regularly at club level, especially with a major tournament approaching.

“Certainly when you go to the World Cup, when you take a player who didn’t play for months, you have a problem. For me it’s a surprise not seeing him play,” Broos concluded.

Makgopa has previously been regarded as a reliable attacking option for Bafana Bafana under Broos, contributing in key qualifying and international fixtures.

However, his reduced involvement at Orlando Pirates has now cast doubt over his readiness for a potential World Cup call-up, especially if his situation does not improve in the remaining months of the season.

At club level, Makgopa’s lack of minutes adds to broader squad competition at Orlando Pirates, where attacking positions have become increasingly competitive.

For Broos, the concern is more immediate: whether a striker without consistent match rhythm can be trusted on football’s biggest stage.

With the World Cup approaching fast, Makgopa’s future with the national team may now depend heavily on whether he can force his way back into regular action at club level in time.