Evidence Makgopa will look to continue from where he left off with his performance if he plays this evening, after he was commended in the previous match, as Bafana Bafana are set to take on Tunisia in a crucial fixture this evening.
When Bafana defeated Namibia 4-0 on Sunday, Makgopa was hailed for his impact as coach Hugo Broos employed a direct playing style, which benefited some of his teammates from the balls he won.
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The 23-year-old assisted one of the two goals scored by Themba Zwane and overall, he was credited for his work-rate.
With the towering striker still in search of the first goal of his own, some sections of the South African football fans have been critical of the player's contribution.
However, Broos and his technical team, as well as Makgopa's teammates have been appreciative of the work he puts in and are supportive.
Former defender Japie Motale has been impressed with the Orlando Pirates forward.
"I urge Makgopa to remain focused regardless of what is being said about him and he mustn't take to heart the social media comments. He must listen only to the positive things. If I am not mistaken, this is the first major tournament for the boy with the national team and so far, he has done well. AFCON is a big stage and it's not like the Maimane (Alfred) Phiri Games and tournaments like that, but it is a big competition with a high standard. It's not easy there," said Motale.
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"Like I am saying, the boy is doing well and in the coming years he will be one of our best strikers in South Africa. And when that happens, the same people who are criticising him now will be singing a different tune. Our problem in the country is that we want to be associated with stars, and I am saying now that Makgopa's time to shine is coming," he added.
Bafana will play Tunisia at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo at 19h00.
