Khulumani Ndamane in training with Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the CAF Champions League semi-final first leg in Tunis where they won 1-0.
Image: BackpagePix
Khulumani Ndamane is living the dream by competing in the CAF Champions League, which is why he has embraced the challenges that come with the competition as he looks to help Mamelodi Sundowns succeed.
Sundowns have one foot in the Champions League final, as they need just a draw at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday (3pm) to progress, following their historic 1-0 win over Espérance in the first leg in Tunis last Sunday.
Reaching the semi-finals of the competition for the second time in a row has already been a milestone for the team and some individuals, including Ndamane.
The towering left-footed defender is playing in his first season in the competition, having arrived at the club from TS Galaxy in January. His stint so far has been impressive, as he has quickly climbed the pecking order to partner Grant Kekana in most matches.
While he has largely shown his quality and adapted seamlessly, Ndamane has faced physical challenges on the continent, coming up against strong, aggressive strikers who look to overpower defenders.
The 23-year-old admitted that it was intimidating at first, but with continued game time and a better understanding of the demands of the competition, he is now realising a childhood dream while learning with every match.
“I am very happy to be playing in the Champions League; it’s something that I have always wanted to do since I was young,” Ndamane told newshounds at the club’s base, Chloorkop, this week. “So, I am now even more encouraged to keep pushing forward.
“CAF is difficult. It’s not like the league. The players are more physical, and that’s been helping me become stronger.”
Ndamane may need to be even stronger against Espérance in the return leg. After starting on the bench in the first leg, he is expected to be in the starting line-up in Hatfield, replacing the suspended Kekana, who was sent off in Tunis.
Ndamane acknowledged the impact the absence of Kekana might have in such an important match but said he is ready to step in if called upon by coach Miguel Cardoso.
“The absence of Grant is really a blow for us,” Ndamane said. “Everyone has seen that he brings experience to the team. But since other players are available, we will try to fill the gap and see how we perform.
“I might get a chance to step in, but that doesn’t mean I’m happy about the red card. I will come in if the coach decides and try to help the team.”
Ndamane has shown maturity in his game since joining Sundowns, but he credits his development to the guidance of senior teammates and the coaching staff.
“I think what’s helping me the most is listening to the advice of the senior players who have been part of the team, as well as the coach,” he said.
With Sundowns set to face Espérance for the third time in a row in the knockout stages of the competition, Ndamane believes the Tunisian side’s experience makes them a formidable opponent.
That is why he is eager to continue learning and gaining valuable experience that will help him improve further.
“Espérance are a team with a lot of experience in CAF competitions,” Ndamane said. “Personally, since it’s my first season in the tournament, I am gaining experience that will help me and the team going forward.”