Phumudzo Manenzhe, the ex-Orlando Pirates striker, believes Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele had an important role to play in the impact made by Evidence Makgopa, who scored the last of South Africa’s goals in their 3-1 win over Ethiopia in a World Cup qualifier.
Makgopa's added-time goal was superbly taken as he coolly lobbed oncoming Ethiopian goalkeeper Fasil Gebremichael to ensure there was no late fight-back from the East Africans on Saturday.
"We said, where is Helman, because we couldn't see him on the bench. That's the role the assistant coach plays - when Evidence is warming up behind the goals, Helman goes there and says, 'this is your opportunity',” Manenzhe said after the match.