Years of hard work and dedication have finally paid off for talented local soccer player Ndamulelo Maphangule, who has been selected for the Bafana Bafana squad to face Lesotho in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday.
Maphangule, who lives in Hamasakona, Vhembe, currently plays for Betway Premiership side Polokwane City.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos was forced to replace Orlando Pirates midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi, who sustained an injury and missed his side's 2-1 win against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Sunday. Maswanganyi's setback created an opportunity for Maphangule to step up and prove his worth.
Maphangule began his football career at Masakona United before moving to the Black Leopards Diski team the following year. His talent was spotted by a scout from Mbombela United, a National First Division team, who offered him a contract.
When Mbombela United were relegated that same year, Maphangule returned home to join Venda Football Academy, competing in the ABC Motsepe League. He later joined Polokwane City, where he primarily plays as a midfielder.
Maphangule credits his recent national team call-up to his teammates and technical staff at Polokwane City. He also expressed gratitude to the Vhembe community, saying their support had helped him revive his football career.
When asked about his aspirations, Maphangule said his goal was to play abroad one day. He described his Bafana Bafana call-up as a step in the right direction towards achieving his dream of becoming a regular in the national squad.