Evidence Makgopa: Orlando Pirates striker ruled out for two months

Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa will miss the next two months after being diagnosed with a knee injury.

Makgopa had been managing the problem during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and through pre-season, but Orlando Pirates’ medical team has now advised him to take an extended period of rest to allow the injury to recover.

The injury does not require surgery, although the 26-year-old will be hoping to return to fitness as quickly as possible and put himself back in contention for both club and international selection.

His absence is expected to rule him out of South Africa’s upcoming 2026 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The timing of the recovery period makes it highly unlikely that the striker will be available for those fixtures.

Makgopa has made 102 appearances for Orlando Pirates over the past three seasons, scoring 23 goals and providing nine assists. During that period, he has helped the club win eight trophies, including the domestic treble last season.

His injury has already affected the attacking options available to the Buccaneers. Yanela Mbuthuma has continued as the starting striker, while Boitumelo Radiopane has provided an option from the bench.

New signing Sebastian Pedersen, who arrived last week, is also among the alternatives available to the club. Sifiso Luthuli completes the other striker options within the squad.

Makgopa’s absence therefore leaves Orlando Pirates without one of their most experienced attacking players as the club manages the next stage of his recovery. Although surgery has not been deemed necessary, the medical advice means he must step away from competitive action for an extended period.

The striker’s return will be determined by his recovery from the knee problem, with both Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana awaiting his eventual availability for selection.

This article was brought to you by Rexona.

Story by Lorenz Kohler (@Lorenz_KO).

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