Khulumani Ndamane on Mbokazi competition at Bafana

Interview

Ndamane speaks on Mbokazi competition

Photo: Khulumani Ndamane

TS Galaxy defender Khulumani Ndamane has opened up about the fierce competition with Mbekezeli Mbokazi for a starting berth at Bafana Bafana.

The 21-year-old stalwart has been a forced to be reckoned with in the heart of Galaxy's defense since joining the club from Kaizer Chiefs' reserve team last season.

Similarly, the Orlando Pirates starlet has emerged as one of the important figures for club and country and both players have been named in Hugo Broos' preliminary squad for AFCON.

With the two defenders vying for the same left-footed center-back starting spot, Ndamane welcomes the competition and insists it's a healthy one full of learning curves.

“I think the competition is there and Mbokazi is doing very well. So, there is something I can learn from him and there's something he can also learn from me. We are helping each other somewhere somehow,” said The Rockets' star.

"So, whenever he gets a chance, he plays well and I have to learn the things he does, then I think we will be fine.

On personal ambitions, the Bafana international has set sights on making the cut in the final AFCON and FIFA World Cup squads and yearns of lifting silverware with Galaxy on club level.

“It would make me really happy because I wish to play AFCON like every other player. Also to gain experience because being at AFCON gives you the chance to play against players who ply their trade in Europe, so it would really make me happy,” Ndamane added.

"I wish to see myself playing in the FIFA World Cup next year and for TS Galaxy, my wish is for us to win a trophy - that would be a big achievement.

Having already made 13 appearances across all competitions this season, Ndamane will be aiming to add to his tally when Galaxy visit Polokwane City at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.