Minnesota United’s Bongokuhle Hlongwane may well be asking himself what more he needs to do to convince Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos to bring him back into the national team fold.
The 25-year-old Pietermaritzburg-born Hlongwane was back among the goals this weekend, netting the second goal in Minnesota United’s 3-3 draw against Club America. Unfortunately, they would go on to lose the game 8-7 on penalties.
Sunday’s goal brought his tally to two in the last week. He also scored in their impressive 4-1 win over Mexican club Querétaro. The two strikes brought his tally to three goals for the season. It’s not been his best season in terms of goals, but he’s mainly been used in deeper or more defensive roles, which is a testament to his versatility.
Throughout his time in the United States, he’s shown countless times that he can be an exciting footballer with an eye for the spectacular. In his inaugural Leagues Cup campaign two years ago, he finished with seven goals, with global superstar Lionel Messi the only player who scored more.
He has shown the kind of form that could be useful to Broos as he navigates the remaining FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
What makes Hlongwane’s journey particularly interesting is how he has adapted his game since moving to MLS. Known in South Africa primarily for his pace and directness in attack, he has gradually added defensive discipline and tactical awareness to his repertoire.
Minnesota United have at times deployed him in deeper roles, trusting his ability to track back and contribute to the team’s overall shape. While this has limited his goal-scoring opportunities, it has arguably made him a more complete and mature footballer – one who understands the demands of the modern game beyond just flair and finishing.
Since taking over Bafana Bafana, coach Broos has always emphasised the importance of versatility and tactical intelligence in his squad selections – qualities Hlongwane now possesses in abundance.
While others may grab headlines with flashy stats, Hlongwane’s evolution into a more rounded player deserves recognition. If national team selection is truly based on form, growth, and adaptability, then perhaps it’s time the door was opened once again for the man from Pietermaritzburg.
IOL Sport
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