Orlando Pirates legend applauds Abdeslam Ouaddou

According to the Orlando Pirates legend Lekoelea, the title race could look very different if Makgopa had played more.

Makgopa started and scored in the 2-0 win over Stellenbosch FC, stepping in after concerns raised by Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

The goal helped Orlando Pirates stay within touching distance of Mamelodi Sundowns, who are two points ahead before meeting Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday night.

STEVE LEKOELEA QUESTIONS SELECTION CALLS

“I’m happy the Pirates coach finally saw the light and started the game with Makgopa. So, yesterday he started and won the game for us and even scored,” Lekoelea told KickOff.

“We would be talking about a different story… if he started in all those matches. After the win, this season’s league title race has become even tighter,” he added.

“However, let’s wait for the last game… Sundowns are usually unstoppable during this stage. There are only 5km left to the finish line… Pirates need to win all three remaining games.”

EVIDENCE MAKGOPA’S IMPACT FOR ORLANDO PIRATES

The 25-year-old striker has recorded 5 goals and 3 assists in 20 appearances, accumulating over 860 minutes on the pitch.

His efficiency is particularly notable, averaging roughly one goal contribution every 108 minutes. While often rotating with other forwards, Makgopa has frequently made his mark as an “impact player” from the bench.

Beyond his domestic league form, the Orlando Pirates star has been a consistent presence for Bafana Bafana, playing a key role in South Africa’s international fixtures. The GaMampa-born star featured in three matches during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in early 2026, where he scored a goal in the Round of 16 against Cameroon.