Ndamane: You Can’t Fool Around At Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khulumani Ndamane says playing for the Tshwane giants keeps him grounded, as he expressed gratitude after the team secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League.
Sundowns once again advanced to the knockout stage of the CAF Champions League after securing a crucial 2–0 victory over MC Alger at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.
The African giants is now the only South African side remaining in CAF club competitions after Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC all fell short during the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The quarter-final draw will be conducted on Tuesday at the premises of the Egyptian Football Association.
Sundowns potential opponents could be Al Ahly, Stade Malien, or Pyramids FC, which is the side that defeated them in the final of the 2025 edition
“We are so happy that we managed to progress to the next round,” said Ndamane.
“It’s something that we wanted, and I think that also motivate to keep on moving forward.”
Ndamane, who joined Sundowns from TS Galaxy during the January transfer window, appears to have caught the eye of coach Miguel Cardoso.
The young defender has been trusted with a place in the starting line-up in the Champions League, despite his limited continental experience.
Ndamane played the full 90 minutes against MC Alger in a crucial match for Sundowns, a game they needed to win. Thrown into the deep end, he rose to the occasion and delivered an impressive performance.
The 22-year-old acknowledged that, before signing for Sundowns, he was aware of the quality of players at the club and recognized that he would need to work hard to earn his place on the team.
“I didn’t sign for Sundowns to come and fool around. I didn’t come here to relax because I knew that the club has players who have quality. So my responsibility is to work and push very hard,” Ndamane stated.
Ndamane also spoke about his partnership with Grant Kekana, noting their strong communication on the field, which helps them defend very well.
“Grant is a cool guy, and playing with him allows me to relax. We always help each other, and we make a mark for each other. So I think we communicate well,” Ndamane added.
