Tlou Nkwe Sends Strong Message After Best Friend Thabang Matuludi Lands Dream Move To Mamelodi Sundowns

Polokwane City FC defender Tlou Nkwe has revealed how watching his close friend and former teammate Thabang Matuludi secure a move to Mamelodi Sundowns has strengthened his determination to reach the highest level of South African football.

Nkwe believes Matuludi’s journey is proof that hard work, patience and belief can open doors to the biggest opportunities in the game. The defender is now using his friend’s success as motivation as he continues to develop his own career at Polokwane City.

Matuludi recently completed a move to Sundowns on a three-year contract, with the Tshwane giants securing the services of the Bafana Bafana international after his impressive spell with Rise and Shine. His departure marked the end of a successful five-season period at the Limpopo-based club.

Speaking during the Carling Knockout Cup media day at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday, Nkwe admitted that losing someone as important as Matuludi was difficult for the team, particularly because of their close personal relationship.

“Yeah, we are really close, he’s still my friend, we are best friends,” Nkwe said, as reported by FARPost.

The 26-year-old acknowledged that Matuludi’s departure had affected Polokwane City, given the quality and experience the defender brought to the squad. However, Nkwe remains confident that the team can adjust and continue competing effectively.

He explained that the club has suitable options available to fill the gap, although the replacements will need time to become comfortable with the team's playing style.

Nkwe also made it clear that he is genuinely happy for his friend, describing Matuludi as both a talented footballer and a good person.

Rather than viewing the transfer as something that places distance between their careers, Nkwe sees it as evidence that his own ambitions remain achievable.

“I’m very happy for him because he is a great player, a good person. I actually draw motivation from him that things are actually possible with God and also maybe one day, you never know, God willing, I might also find myself in that stage,” he added.

Nkwe’s comments also highlight the role Polokwane City has played in helping players develop and attract attention from bigger clubs. He believes the environment gives footballers room to learn, express themselves and improve without unnecessary pressure.

The defender, who joined Polokwane City from Pretoria Callies in 2023, previously attracted interest from Kaizer Chiefs, although a move did not materialise.

He remains hopeful that the right opportunity will eventually arrive, while acknowledging that any potential transfer will depend on the circumstances and the club's decision.

For now, Nkwe is focused on making his performances count as Polokwane City prepare to face Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Cup last 16 on Saturday.

With Matuludi already taking the next major step in his career, Nkwe will be eager to prove that he, too, has what it takes to compete among South Africa’s elite footballers.

Source https://x.com/FARPostZA/status/2112962570604724649