Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa has singled out new left-back Nkosikhona Ndaba as one of the most impressive additions to the Buccaneers’ squad.
Ndaba joined Pirates in the recent transfer window from Richards Bay, filling a crucial gap in defence following the departures of Innocent Maela and Paseka Mako.
His arrival has added depth to a position that has in recent seasons been covered by Deon Hotto, who is naturally an attacking winger but has often been deployed at left-back.
Speaking at the club’s media open day this week, Makgopa admitted he knew very little about Ndaba before he arrived but was quickly impressed by what he saw.
“For me, I was never familiar with Ndaba’s game. I hadn’t even watched his games, but after seeing him, I knew we have a gem,” said the forward.
So far, the 23-year-old defender has made just one appearance in Pirates colours, featuring for 45 minutes in the Betway Premiership clash against Orbit College. He has also been named on the bench in four league matches as he continues to settle into life at the Soweto giants.
Ndaba could be handed his biggest test yet this weekend, with the possibility of making the starting XI in what would be his first final for Pirates.
The Buccaneers face Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, where the young full-back will be eager to make his mark.