Morena Ramoreboli Explains Why Hugo Broos Is Fond of a Striker Like Evidence Makgopa

• South African tactician Morena Ramoreboli explained why Hugo Broos prefers a striker like Evidence Makgopa
• The Botswana national team coach, who was instrumental in creating the current Bafana Bafana squad, also mentioned another striker that the Belgian coach likes
• Makgopa has been a regular in Broos' team alongside former Orlando Pirates striker Lyle Foster

Botswana coach Morena Ramoreboli has shed light on why Belgian tactician Hugo Broos favours a forward like Evidence Makgopa.

Ramoreboli, who briefly collaborated with Broos in assembling the squad for his initial games in charge, revealed that while the Belgian tactician admired Lebo Mothiba, the striker’s limited minutes on the pitch ultimately reduced his chances with Bafana Bafana.

Makgopa eventually became the striker Broos trusted in the number-nine role, a decision that initially faced a lot of criticism.

The Orlando Pirates striker was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that finished third at the last AFCON, and was also part of the team that booked a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup while scoring in the last qualifiers against Rwanda.

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Ramoreboli on Broos liking Makgopa

Ramoreboli explained that Broos preferred Bafana to score either from second balls, crosses, or combinations originating from wider areas, where the team had the most speed.

These were some of the factors Broos considered when identifying the type of players he wanted, which required careful assessment and engagement.

One player Broos admired was Lebo Mothiba, but his limited playing time reduced his opportunities, as Broos values a number-nine who can serve as a reference point in his system.

Ramoreboli noted that Makgopa’s role is not primarily to score goals but to facilitate how the team plays, reflecting the type of player Broos looks for when building his squad.

Here is what Bafana Bafana fans are saying concerning Ramoreboli's revelation on social media.

Edward Mashadza responded:

"Makgopa might not possess the skills and flair of say Mofokeng, Shabalala or Zwane, but he is a hustler and a hardworking top man. For me, he can even make it into certain leagues abroad because what he has is exactly what overseas teams want from a striker."

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Tornado Sgwili reacted:

"He got another good advisor, who says that the used Sundowns players, fans started to enjoy the Bafana games."

Bheki Sikhosana implied:

"Good player, but as a striker, he needs to score goals. A good striker's being charged by goals he scores, nothing more."

Mamoc Xambratana commented:

"Thidiela told us.... Pirates got no money, so playing for Bafana is a form of Pirates players to get a bonus."

M_Jasz_M said:

"If we want to win titles, we need a striker who scores; otherwise, we must forget."

Sizwe Khumalo wrote:

"Yes, he's a false 9, not a striker. He plays a vital role that many cannot see."

Thabo Morobe shared:

"It's all because we don't have lethal strikers; if Benni McCarthy were his age, Broos would opt for Benni, this link-up narrative would not be mentioned."

Geoffrey Lea added:

"Hugo Broos likes strikers with good link-up and not prolific scorers, hence why he uses guys like Magkopa and Forster."

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Mbule shares what Broos told Bafana

Briefly News earlier reported that Sipho Mbule shared what Broos told Bafana Bafana ahead of their friendly game against Zambia.

The Orlando Pirates midfielder was one of the best players in the game against the 2012 AFCON winners.

Source: Briefly News