Episode 310: Leagues Cup Bongi

·27 min·2 clips

Bongi Hlongwane reveals his first podcast appearance and his nervousness about being interviewed.

The episode features an interview with Minnesota United winger Bongi Hlongwane, who is appearing on the podcast for the first time. Hosts Zarek Valentin and Jonathan Harrison start by asking about his new roommate on the road, Owen, after Songbin's departure to St. Louis. Bongi explains his close bond with Songbin, formed through shared moments and humor, and expresses mixed emotions about his friend leaving for more playing time. The conversation shifts to Bongi's performance in the Leagues Cup, where he attributes recent improvements to a talk with coach Dennis about reducing turnovers and protecting the ball. Bongi discusses balancing his natural South African flair with tactical instructions from coaches, highlighting a cultural difference where showmanship is encouraged to entertain fans. He recalls a specific moment against Real Salt Lake where he used a sole roll move that sparked controversy, illustrating the clash between entertainment and perceived disrespect. The hosts explore Bongi's transition to wingback, noting his improved 1v1 defending and the physical demands of the position, including matches against LAFC's Danny Bawanga. Bongi describes the challenge of attacking immediately after defending while tired, and how he manages decision-making late in games. He expresses optimism about the team's current standing compared to last season and his personal growth. In a quick-fire segment, Bongi names Joaquin as the player with the most flair, prefers his own goal celebration, and struggles to identify the funniest teammate. He concludes by sharing the emotional impact of having his mother and brother visit from South Africa to see him play, calling it the best moment of his life.

As heard by us

Bongo's flair gets a warm, grounded explanation through one memorable Salt Lake move.

Sound of the Loons gives Bongo room to explain the instincts behind his play on the wing, with Steve easing from first-appearance nerves into a warmer discussion of touch, confidence, and the podcasts Bongo follows from back home.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You get Bongi Longwane in a relaxed Sound of the Loons chair, tracing the South African flair Steve sees in his game to a culture where playing with joy can turn soccer into a show.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Sound of the Loons