Bafana Bafana striker Bongokuhle Hlongwane has been rewarded with a contract extension at his MLS club Minnesota United.
The 24-year-old joined Minnesota in January 2022 ahead of the new campaign. This was after parting ways with Maritzburg United [now called Durban City FC].
Hlongwane penned a three-year deal at the club, which was set to expire at the end of this year. The deal had an option for a further year, which has been exercised.
In the three seasons the striker has been playing in the MLS, he has been displaying consistent performances each time he’s in action.
After 108 matches across all competitions, the forward found the back of the net 30 times. In addition, he helped his teammates by grabbing 14 assists.
BONGOKUHLE HLONGWANE EXTENDS HIS STAY AT MINNESOTA UNITED
Minnesota posted on its website and social media accounts that Hlongwane is one of the players the club has opted to exercise contract extensions on ahead of the 2025 MLS season.
“Minnesota United announced today its roster decisions following the conclusion of the club’s 2024 Major League Soccer season,” reads the club statement.
“MNUFC exercised the contract options for goalkeepers Alec Smir and Dayne St. Clair, defenders Morris Duggan, Anthony Markanich Jr. and Devin Padelford. Midfielders are Hassani Dotson, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Sam Shashoua, and forward Tani Oluwaseyi.”
Minnesota’s 2024 MLS season came to an end last week. This is after they suffered a 6-2 defeat against LA Galaxy. Galaxy have well-known players like Marco Reus, Maya Yoshida and Martin Caceres.
This season, the Bafana international racked up 11 goals and provided four assists. His efforts in front of goal helped Minnesota to qualify for the MLS play-off having missed out last season.
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