Ndamane Eyes AFCON Spot, Embraces Bafana Competition With Mbokazi

TS Galaxy defender Khulumane Ndamane says there are key football attributes he can learn from Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who competes with him for the centre-back position in the national team.

Ndamane made his Bafana Bafana debut in June during the goalless friendly against Tanzania, where he delivered an impressive performance and was named Man of the Match.

The 21-year-old has continued to impress coach Hugo Broos, earning further consideration for the national squad and receiving a recent call-up for the friendly against Zambia as part of preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The KwaZulu-Natal-born defender, a product of Kaizer Chiefs, was thrown into the deep end during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium, partnering with Nkosinathi Sibisi as Bafana Bafana qualified for the FIFA World Cup.

This was after Mbokazi was sent off against Zimbabwe in Durban, but Ndamane’s calmness and adaptability in that match underscored his readiness to compete at a higher level.

Ndamane acknowledged the competition within the squad but believes Mbokazi plays an important role in sharpening his own game.

“I think the competition is there, and Mbokazi is performing very well,” said Ndamane.

“So, I can learn some things from him, and we also help each other. Whoever gets the chance will play, and I have to watch what he does and learn from that.”

With the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to run from 21 December to 18 January, Ndamane shared what it would mean to be part of the final squad.

“It will make me happy because I also wish to play at AFCON like any other player,” he said.

“It will help me gain experience because in this tournament you play against players who compete in Europe. So, I think it will make me very happy.”

Meanwhile, Ndamane’s club TS Galaxy will host Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday.