“Destined For Greatness” — How Sundowns’ Newest Star Went From Chiefs’ Reserves To AFCON In 24 Months

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khulumani Ndamane has reflected on his meteoric rise, suggesting his rapid transition from the youth ranks to Bafana Bafana contention signals a career destined for the highest level.

The 22-year-old officially joined The Brazilians during the 2026 January transfer window, having signed from TS Galaxy at the start of the season.

To ensure his development remained on track, Ndamane spent the first six months of the campaign on loan at Galaxy before fully integrating into the star-studded Sundowns squad.

Now in his second Betway Premiership season, Ndamane’s top-flight journey began in 2024/25. His path to the professional ranks was paved by TS Galaxy, who scouted him from Kaizer Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team in 2022.

Since making the leap, the defender has already earned five caps for the national team under coach Hugo Broos.

“My time in the lower leagues was very short; I reached the PSL so quickly,” Ndamane noted.

“To go from my debut straight into the national team… I think those are signs that there is much more I can achieve in my career.”

Ndamane was a member of the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. While he didn’t see game time, he views the experience as a vital educational milestone.

“I learned so much at AFCON because we were facing players based in Europe. The intensity is incredible, and observing that level has contributed greatly to my development.”

Despite his early success, the Amakhosi academy graduate remains grounded regarding his technical and physical gaps. “I realized in Morocco that I need to work on my physique; I need to be much stronger to compete at that level,” he admitted.

Ndamane will look to apply those lessons as Sundowns prepare to host Chippa United in a Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this Friday evening.