Rulani Mokwena hails Ntando Nkosi for taking another step in his development
Rulani Mokwena has hailed Mamelodi Sundowns’ 18-year-old rising star Ntando Nkosi for taking another step in his development.
The nascent Bafana Ba Style teenager made his debut during the club’s 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC in a DStv Premiership clash this past weekend.
Nkosi has progressed through the ranks until getting his first taste of playing in the top flight.
Last month, Mokwena handed striker Jeremo Karelse his debut against Orlando Pirates, whereas another Sundowns prodigy Thando Buthelezi also made his first senior appearance against Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup last 16 encounter.
Meanwhile, Siyanda Nyanga started on the bench when they faced Stellies.
To put a cherry on top, Mokwena congratulated Nkosi for being selected in David Notoane’s 29-member preliminary squad for CAF U23 Olympic qualifiers.
The SA U23 are scheduled to lock horns with Congo Brazzaville in two crucial back-to-back clashes later this month.
The first leg will be played at Dobsonville Stadium on Thursday, 23 March 2023.
RULANI MOKWENA PROUD OF NTANDO NKOSI
“I’m proud of him [Ntando Nkosi] like I’m proud of all of the players,” Mokwena told the media.
“Congratulations to the football club, congratulations to Ntando and the Academy staff.
“The success of the younger ones is always the reflection of the hard work that they put in.
“There are a lot coming up Siya and Jerome are also in that space.”
Mokwena continued: “I look forward to another Thando Buthelezi. A very good player. I think you will see more of him and be excited as a country.
“I wish them all the best with coach David [Notoane] in their games against Congo.”
With all being said, coach Mokwena has a mammoth task ahead when they take on Egyptian giants Al Ahly on Saturday, 11 March 2023.
The game will take place at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, with the kick-off set for 15:00.
As things stand, Masandawana are currently sitting second in Group B with 7 points, two points behind leaders Al Hilal.
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