Orlando Pirates Dealt Major Blow as Evidence Makgopa Faces Lengthy Layoff

• Evidence Makgopa has suffered a setback that could keep the Orlando Pirates striker away from action for a significant period
• The latest development comes after the Bafana Bafana forward played through an issue during a busy period on the football calendar
• The injury news could have implications for both Orlando Pirates and South Africa as important fixtures approach

Orlando Pirates have been handed an unwanted setback involving one of their attacking options just as the new season gets underway. Evidence Makgopa is expected to miss around two months after suffering a knee injury, with the setback also potentially affecting his Bafana Bafana involvement.

The 26-year-old striker reportedly played through a niggle during the 2026 FIFA World Cup before continuing to manage the problem during Pirates’ pre-season preparations. According to iDiski Times, the club’s medical team has advised Makgopa to take an extended period of rest to allow him to recover fully.

According to iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler, Makgopa had been managing a niggle that first surfaced during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and continued through Orlando Pirates’ pre-season programme. Kohler reported that the club’s medical team had subsequently recommended an extended period of rest so the striker could recover properly.

The injury does not require surgery, with Kohler indicating that Makgopa’s treatment will instead centre on rest and rehabilitation. The focus will be on allowing the knee to recover before he resumes competitive football.

Pirates and Bafana Bafana face Makgopa setback

Makgopa’s injury comes after a productive 2025/26 campaign in which the Orlando Pirates striker scored six league goals and provided four assists. His performances made him an important attacking option for the Buccaneers during their successful campaign.

The 26-year-old also played in all four of South Africa’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having featured under then-Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

However, the latest injury update could now affect his international involvement. Kohler reported that Makgopa’s recovery period was likely to make him unavailable when South Africa begin their upcoming 2026 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

According to Kohler, it was “highly unlikely” that the striker would be fit enough to feature in those qualifiers.

For Orlando Pirates, the immediate priority will be allowing Makgopa sufficient time to recover rather than rushing his return. His rehabilitation will determine when he can safely resume competitive football and work towards returning to both club and international selection.

Orlando Pirates face bigger test in title defence

Briefly News also reported that former Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs striker Lehlohonolo Majoro believes the Buccaneers have what it takes to retain the Betway Premiership title.

Majoro expects a more competitive campaign, with several clubs capable of challenging the traditional league heavyweights.

Source: Briefly News