‘I’m not here by fluke’ – Ndamane’s mindset on his Bafana bow

TS Galaxy’s rising star Khulumani Ndamane has spoken candidly about the mixture of nerves and exhilaration he experienced during his memorable Bafana Bafana debut against Tanzania on Friday.

The 21-year-old defender earned praise for his performance in the 0-0 draw at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, where he partnered effectively with Stellenbosch FC’s Thabo Moloisane at the heart of the defence.

The former Kaizer Chiefs Diski Challenge product, whose composure defied his age, was even voted Man of the Match for his outstanding efforts.

“I was nervous, I don’t want to lie because that was my first game playing for the national team,” Ndamane admitted to SAFA media. “Actually, I couldn’t believe that it was me [making my debut]. But once we got into the pitch, I told myself that I’m not here by fluke, so I will play the way I know best.”

Ndamane’s self-belief paid off. “So indeed I had a good game and also received the Man of the Match award. So I was so happy. So when they called me after the match and told me that I was Man of the Match, I couldn’t believe it,” he recounted, still seemingly amazed by the recognition.

What a debut! 🔥 Khulumani Ndamane steps onto the senior national stage and walks away with Man of the Match! 🇿🇦💫@aQuelle @aQuelleViV#Siyadumuza#TheRockets#TSG pic.twitter.com/L9D2iuJdfc

— TS Galaxy FC (@TSGALAXYFC) June 7, 2025

The disbelief continued when informed of his individual accolade. “I asked them if it was really me, and they confirmed it was me. So I was very happy because since I started playing football, this is my first Man of the Match, and it happened when I was playing for Bafana Bafana,” he explained. “That made me happy to receive it on my first call-up. I was very happy and I can’t even explain it.”

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Ndamane also extended his thanks to the supporters. “What I can say is that as a player, I would like to thank all our supporters. I also promise to work hard and not disappoint. So they must keep on supporting me, and I am very grateful.”

Ndamane and his Bafana Bafana teammates are set to face Mozambique in another international friendly on Tuesday night, again at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. His debut performance has certainly left a lasting impression, drawing praise from coach Hugo Broos himself.