Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Gomolemo Kekana has opened up about his lack of playing time at the club, admitting that there are moments of frustration but insisting that he remains focused on his ambitions and his responsibility to represent South Africa.

The 20-year-old has struggled to get regular opportunities in Miguel Cardoso’s first team, with the competition for places at the Tshwane giants making it difficult for him to establish himself as a regular member of the senior squad.

Kekana’s situation has attracted attention, particularly following reports that he had rejected a contract extension from Sundowns. Although his future at the club has become a talking point, the young midfielder has continued to focus on his development and making the most of the opportunities available to him.

The Zebediela-born midfielder was promoted to the Sundowns senior team ahead of the 2025/26 campaign after impressing at youth level. He had established himself as one of the promising young players in South African football after being part of the Amajita squad that won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

He also represented South Africa at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, gaining valuable international experience against some of the best young players from different countries.

However, translating his progress at international level into regular first-team appearances at Sundowns has not been easy. Cardoso has several experienced players at his disposal, and the competition for positions has limited Kekana’s chances of featuring regularly.

Speaking to journalists at the University of Pretoria ahead of the South Africa Under-23 team's AFCON and Olympic Games qualifiers against Madagascar, Kekana admitted that his lack of game-time can sometimes be frustrating.

“There could be frustrations here and there but you just have to focus on what you want and I’m glad to be here to represent my country which is very important for me,” Kekana said.

The midfielder also expressed his appreciation to the national team coaches and technical staff for continuing to show confidence in him.

“It’s always a pleasure and privilege to represent the national team, I thank the coaches and staff members for believing in me,” he added.

Kekana also discussed the quality within the current Under-23 squad, highlighting the presence of players who are based in Europe and the importance of bringing their different experiences together.

“Obviously I think Europe is where a lot of players find themselves and you can see their level but I think we’re just working as a team, we unite and mix our talents and just do well for the national team,” he continued.

He believes the understanding between the players is one of the group's biggest strengths. According to Kekana, many of the current Under-23 internationals previously played together in the Under-20 team, which has helped them develop strong relationships.

“This is a group I think that started in 2024, so a lot of players who are with the Under-23 now are from the U20 team, so I think the relationship and the camaraderie within all the players and coaching members is very good, I think we have a good group that could do wonderful things for the future,” he said.

South Africa will face Madagascar in the second-round first leg on Saturday afternoon at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

The encounter provides Kekana with another opportunity to gain valuable minutes and continue developing at international level. Meanwhile, his situation at Sundowns will remain worth monitoring as he looks to earn more opportunities under Cardoso.

At just 20 years old, Kekana still has time to establish himself at senior level, but regular playing opportunities will be important for his continued development.

Source: kick-off