Debutant Evidence Makgopa scored twice as South Africa came from behind to secure a 3-2 victory over Uganda in their friendly international at the Orlando Stadium on Thursday.

The result means a winning start to the Hugo Broos era for the side, though their Belgian coach was back in his homeland to receive his second COVID-19 vaccine dose and Helman Mkhalele was the man in charge from the dug-out.

The former Bafana Bafana winger will be delighted with the result, especially as he was forced to field a much-weakened side due to COVID-19 infections and injury, with a host of players making their international bow.

Uganda took the lead through Ibrahim Orit as he headed home at the back post after a point cross.

That was the way it stayed until after the break, when Makgopa scored his first as he turned home a low cross.

The home side took the lead through Bongokuhle Hlongwane, who netted his maiden international goal in his second game, providing a left-footed finish that deflected in off the defender.

A neat move resulted in Bafana’s third as Makgopa was teed-up in the box and fired home for another expert finish.

Uganda gave themselves hope with another headed goal by Lumala Abdu two minutes from the end, but Bafana were able to hold on for the win.