Evidence Makgopa Responds to Critics: ‘I Can’t Force Fans to Love Me
Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa has responded to critics and doubters, asserting that he cannot force fans to love him but is committed to giving his best for the team and the coach who believes in him.
Makgopa, who scored his first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) goal in the last-16 against Morocco, expressed his determination to play with his whole heart and prove his worth.
Evidence Makgopa is unfazed by the hate he is given
Coach Hugo Broos called up Makgopa to the Bafana Bafana squad during his tenure at Baroka, and the striker has since moved to Orlando Pirates.
Evidence Makgopa takes on a Moroccan player
Despite facing challenges with injuries at the start of his tenure with the Buccaneers, Makgopa has returned to regular first-team action and seized the opportunity for a national team return.
Addressing the criticism and skepticism surrounding his selection, Makgopa said:
“You cannot force someone to love you, you cannot force someone to support you, for me, I think I just have to take it the way it is, play my football.”
Makgopa acknowledged the initial doubts about his selection, recalling
“The people were already saying why this player? So for the fact that the coach called me, I’m here to do a job, I’m here to play, and I’m going to play my whole heart for him.”
Despite facing challenges and criticisms, Makgopa remains motivated and determined to showcase his abilities on the pitch.
He highlighted the importance of repaying the coach’s faith in him, stating,
“I have a coach who believes in me, the coach who called me [up to Bafana], so I have to show him I can do it [perform well for the team].”
“I’m always motivated, there’s nothing that can shake me.”
Evidence Makgopa’s impact
Makgopa’s resilience and commitment were evident as he played a crucial role in South Africa’s 2-0 victory over tournament favorites Morocco in the AFCON quarter-final, contributing to the team’s success on the continental stage.