Bongokuhle "Bongi" Hlongwane (born 20 June 2000) is a South African professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Major League Soccer club Minnesota United and the South African national team.
Hlongwane grew up in Nxamalala studying at Umthoqotho High School, Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg and played for Nxamalala Fast XI in the SAFA Regional League before joining Maritzburg United's academy. He made his debut for the club in a 1âÂÂ0 defeat to Orlando Pirates in April 2019 and scored his first goal for the club a month later against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila in the relegation play-offs. He was nominated for the South African Premier Division Young Player of the Season award for the 2020âÂÂ21 campaign. In July 2021, he signed a new one-year contract with the club.
On 5 January 2022, MLS club Minnesota United announced the signing of Hlongwane to a three-year contract with a one-year club option.
Hlongwane was first called up to the South African national team in July 2019, and made his international debut on 28 July as a substitute in a 3âÂÂ2 defeat to Lesotho. On 8 June 2021, he made his second appearance and full debut for South Africa against Uganda and scored his first international goal following a "fortunate deflection" in a 3âÂÂ2 win. On 6 September 2021, he scored against Ghana in a World Cup qualifier as South Africa won 1âÂÂ0.
Hlongwane has been noted for his pace, work ethic and flair, with manager Adrian Heath commenting: âÂÂHe has absolutely explosive pace, but he also looks to combine and build with his teammates. We love his raw talents, but his football IQ is exceptional."