Hlongwane To Honor His Father With Man Of The Match Award Winnings

Kaizer Chiefs winger Naledi Hlongwane, named Man of the Match in the All-Stars’ 3-0 victory over Magesi FC, revealed that a portion of his R100,000 prize money will be used to erect a tombstone for his late father.

Hlongwane, who lost his father last year, scored two goals as the All-Stars dominated Magesi with three quick-fire first-half goals.

“The money that I got today, as my father passed away last year, I was planning to at least do a tombstone for him,” Hlongwane shared with the media, to applause from those present. “The other one I’m going to give to my mother. The other one will go to the savings account.” 

Hlongwane showcased impressive form, scoring both goals with clinical finishes. His first was a brilliant left-footed strike assisted by club teammate Samkelo Zwane. Zwane, who provided the assist, also scored the second in the first half.  

Hlongwane completed his brace shortly before halftime, expertly finishing after Mbekezeli Mbokani teed him up.

“It was a great experience to play with big players in the PSL, like Thembinkosi Lorch,” reflected Hlongwane. 

“Mfundo Vilakazi, I’m used to him because we trained together before he was promoted to the first team. I trained with him at U-19, DDC, and then he went to the first team.”  

Having previously played alongside Orlando Pirates attacker Relebohile Mofokeng at the junior level, Hlongwane expressed his ambition to emulate Mofokeng’s success. Mofokeng, a fan favorite at Pirates, was part of the victorious All-Stars team before being substituted at halftime.

When asked about his chances of breaking into the Kaizer Chiefs senior team, Hlongwane stated, “If I get the call-up and sign with the first team, I will go and take that opportunity with both hands,” said Hlongwane.  

However, during the press conference, Hlongwane unexpectedly suffered from cramps, momentarily halting his response and eliciting laughter from the media. “Yoh, eish,” he exclaimed before concluding his remarks.

Picture courtesy Ayanda Shots