Bongokuhle Hlongwane: Minnesota United’s $2 Million Man—Net Worth, Goals & Why He’s the MLS Meme King in 2025

Alright, let’s talk about B. Hlongwane, the man in the #21 shirt for Minnesota United FC. If you’ve watched the Loons lately, you’ve seen how Hlongwane’s pace and persistence can tilt a match in a heartbeat.

He’s not just quick—he’s got that edge. Hlongwane attacks defenders, pushes the tempo, and has a knack for showing up big in crucial moments. You know teams need that spark plug, and honestly, he’s been that guy for Minnesota throughout his MLS run.

He’s emerged as one of the club’s key attackers. Hlongwane made headlines by hitting double-digit goals in a regular season, joining a pretty exclusive group in Minnesota United history.

Want to keep tabs on his progress? Check out his official club profile.

Whether you’re new to the Loons or you’ve been around since day one, getting to know Hlongwane’s journey and skillset really makes you appreciate the kind of momentum he brings every time he steps on the field.

Bongokuhle Hlongwane: Profile of Minnesota United FC Forward

Minnesota United relies heavily on Bongokuhle Hlongwane up front. He’s a forward who brings a South African flair, relentless work rate, and a real eye for goal.

As a South African international, he’s added a different dimension to the team’s attack. You can see the energy and unpredictability he brings every time.

Personal Background

Born June 20, 2000, in Nxamalala, South Africa, Hlongwane came up through local football. That small-town grit paved the way for a career that’s now gone international.

He started turning heads back home with Maritzburg United. That run led to his move to Minnesota United in 2021.

He’s been a regular pick for the South Africa national team. At 25, he’s got that rare mix of youth and experience, connecting soccer cultures from Africa to MLS.

Playing Position and Number

You’ll usually find Hlongwane on the right wing, flying up and down the field as Minnesota’s #21. That number’s become a familiar sight for fans.

He’s racked up over 100 matches for Minnesota United. In the 2024 season, he hit a personal milestone—his 10th goal, making him just the fifth in club history to reach double digits in a season.

Key Minnesota United Stats

Season	Games Played	Goals Scored	Assists	Shirt Number
2024	31	10	4	21

If you want the full breakdown, check out his official club profile.

Notable Traits and Playing Style

Hlongwane’s all about pace and power. He loves taking on defenders down the wing and times his runs into the box well.

You’ll also notice how hard he presses and how often he tracks back on defense. Coaches love that. He’s got the speed, but it’s his sense of where to be that really sets him apart.

Fans have pointed out his improved finishing and movement. That’s led to more goals and made him even more valuable. Minnesota United clearly saw that “raw talent and football intelligence” when they brought him to MLS, as team reports show.

Career with Minnesota United FC

Since joining, Hlongwane has become a major piece for Minnesota United FC. He’s scored key goals, set up teammates, and shown he can create and finish chances in MLS.

Key Performances and Milestones

Hlongwane’s aggressive runs and sharp finishing have made him a constant threat. Every time he steps on the field, he brings that spark—whether starting or coming off the bench.

He hit the 100-match mark for Minnesota United against FC Cincinnati on September 18. That’s a real testament to his durability and commitment.

Getting to double-digit goals in a single season? That’s a big one. Only a handful have pulled that off for Minnesota. He’s answered the call since arriving from Maritzburg United, delivering in big moments and helping the team’s attack grow.

Impact in Major League Soccer

Hlongwane’s style in MLS? Direct and fast. He presses defenders, stretches the field, and just makes life tough for opponents.

His blend of physicality and quick movement opens up space for others. He’s chipped in with assists, too, especially in clutch moments.

The coaching staff can play him wide or up top, which gives Minnesota United options. Defenses have to stay alert for his off-the-ball movement, and that’s made the Loons’ attack a lot more unpredictable.

Scoring Achievements

When Minnesota needs a goal, Hlongwane often answers. He’s hit key milestones—like his 10th regular season goal, which set a new career high and put him in rare company with the club.

Here’s a quick look at some of his key stats:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	32	10	3
2024	30	9	4

He’s got a knack for scoring when it matters most. That’s made him a fan favorite, and his goals have swung matches and grabbed vital points for Minnesota.

Noteworthy Matches

A few games really stand out in Hlongwane’s Minnesota career. Scoring his 10th regular season goal against St. Louis CITY SC? Huge moment.

He also grabbed Goal of Matchday 20 with a beauty against Houston Dynamo FC. After his 100th appearance, he just kept pushing the team forward, creating chances and showing up in big moments.

You can dive deeper into his stats and highlights at Transfermarkt and MLSsoccer.com.

South African Football Journey

Hlongwane’s rise in South African football started with youth development, a breakout at Maritzburg United, and an early pro debut that set him on a fast track.

He worked his way up through the ranks, picking up experience and confidence every step.

Early Professional Debut

Hlongwane made his pro debut at just 18 in the South African Premier Division. That’s young, but he handled the pressure and showed he could hang with the big boys.

He scored his first pro goal in June 2019 against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila. That was the first real sign he could be special. After that, he became a regular, earning more minutes and responsibility every season.

Here’s how he started out:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2018-2019	10	1	0
2019-2020	22	3	2
2020-2021	25	4	5

Time at Maritzburg United

At Maritzburg, Hlongwane really started to blossom. He came in as a raw, speedy winger and kept getting better with regular playing time.

His stats show steady improvement—eight goals and seven assists in the Premier Division before moving on. He even snagged a nomination for Player of the Season in 2020-21.

He used his time there to sharpen his movement and decision-making. That growth caught the eye of bigger clubs, including those outside South Africa, as you can see from his Maritzburg United profile.

Development through Academy

You can’t talk about Hlongwane’s game without mentioning his early years in the Maritzburg United Academy. Coaches noticed his strength, work rate, and willingness to learn right away.

He spent a few seasons in the youth system, playing mostly on the wings. The academy focused on technical skills and tactical awareness, which became real assets in his game.

That foundation let him step up to the senior team and adapt quickly. The academy gave him the tools—structured training, tough matches, and a focus on soccer IQ—to make an impact both at club and international level.

International Experience with South Africa

Hlongwane’s international career with South Africa shows how far he’s come. He’s played key roles in big matches, scored important goals, and kept developing as a forward.

National Team Debut

He made his debut for South Africa at just 19. Right away, he stood out for his athleticism and energy up front.

In that first match, he pressed defenders and made space for others. Coaches praised his willingness to take on defenders and work hard off the ball.

Key Attributes Demonstrated:

• Quick acceleration
• Ability to stretch the field
• Strong work ethic

Those qualities earned him a regular spot with the national team. His early games gave everyone a glimpse of the potential that’s now on full display.

World Cup Qualifier Performances

Hlongwane really made a name for himself during those high-stakes World Cup qualifiers. You could see him right in the thick of it for South Africa, especially as the 2022 FIFA World Cup loomed.

He had his big moment in 2021, scoring the game-winner against Ghana in a tense qualifier. That goal? It didn’t just seal the win—it showed everyone he could handle the spotlight. When the pressure cranked up, he stepped up for his team. You love to see that kind of clutch performance.

Notable Qualifying Match:

Date	Opponent	Result	Contribution
6 Sep 2021	Ghana	1-0 WIN	Game-winning goal

His work in qualifiers kept South Africa’s dream alive. He’s become a rising star and a go-to guy up front. If you want more on that famous goal, check out this feature on his Ghana heroics.

Major Goals and Highlights

If you look at Hlongwane’s highlights for South Africa, a pattern jumps out—he delivers when it matters. Besides that headline-grabbing goal against Ghana, he’s chipped in with goals and assists in other crucial matches.

He hit a milestone with 10 goals in regular season play for Minnesota United. That’s not easy, and it shows his skills travel well between club and country.

He’s racked up over 100 appearances across all competitions. That’s the kind of consistency coaches dream about.

International Highlights:

• Game-winning goal in World Cup Qualifier
• Over 100 club and country appearances
• Double-digit scoring season

Hlongwane’s rise as a South African forward, both at home and abroad, puts him among the most impactful young talents out of the country lately. Want to dive deeper? His Minnesota United FC profile tells the story.

Key Stats and Records of B. Hlongwane

B. Hlongwane keeps showing up for Minnesota United FC. He scores, creates, and just keeps making things happen for club and country.

His numbers? They tell the story of a guy who’s become a key piece in recent seasons.

Seasonal Statistics in MLS

You can see Hlongwane’s impact in his MLS stats. As a forward, he’s a regular in the starting lineup, logging big minutes for Minnesota United FC.

Here’s a quick look at his recent MLS seasons:

Season	Matches Played	Goals	Minutes Played	Shots
2023	34	7	2,402	57
2024	32	10	2,580	67

In 2024, he cracked double digits in goals for the first time in MLS. Only five Minnesota United players have done that, and he’s now one of them. You can check his recent game logs for more details.

Assists and Goal Contributions

Hlongwane isn’t just about scoring. He’s also setting up teammates, making Minnesota United’s attack tough to predict.

In 2024, he hit 14 goal contributions in the regular season—10 goals, 4 assists. He’s always driving at defenders, keeping the offense lively.

Game after game, he’s in the mix, helping push the team forward. If you’re into the numbers, check his assist stats or his career page.

Awards and Honors

Hlongwane’s gotten his share of recognition along the way. He hit his 100th game for Minnesota United in 2024—pretty rare, honestly.

He scored the Goal of the Matchday 20 against Houston Dynamo FC. That moment? It was classic Hlongwane, coming up big when the lights were brightest. He also set a new personal best for goals in 2024. More on his honors and club records.

Notable Matches and Memorable Moments

Bongokuhle Hlongwane has given Minnesota United fans plenty to cheer about. He’s delivered in the big moments, scored some beauties, and just seems to love the big stage.

Goals Against Top Teams

When you look at his most memorable games, those goals against top MLS teams stand out. On June 25, 2025, he bagged two goals in three minutes against Houston Dynamo, putting Minnesota ahead in a wild one.

He celebrated with his family in the stands—a special scene, no doubt. In another big match, Hlongwane scored against FC Cincinnati during his 100th club appearance. That’s a milestone and a statement.

He also hit his 10th regular season MLS goal against St. Louis CITY SC. That put him in rare company—just five Minnesota United players have reached double digits in a season. Hlongwane has a knack for scoring when it matters, especially against tough opponents. For more on these big-game moments, check out how Hlongwane stepped up.

Team of the Matchday Highlights

It’s always a treat when players like Hlongwane get Team of the Matchday nods. He grabbed AT&T Goal of the Matchday honors on Matchday 20, winning nearly half the fan vote.

His speed, movement, and sharp decisions in the final third have put him in the Team of the Matchday spotlight more than once. These honors don’t just come from one good game—they show he’s building a reputation as one of the league’s most exciting forwards.

When Minnesota United needs a jolt, Hlongwane brings it. Fans and teammates notice. See more about his Team of the Matchday recognition.

Matchday	Award	Opponent	Result
20	Goal of the Matchday	Houston Dynamo	Win for MNFC
–	Multiple Team of the Matchday	Various	–

Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Achievements

In knockout competitions, Hlongwane brings the same hunger and drive you see in league play. Whether it’s the Leagues Cup or U.S. Open Cup, he’s out there chasing every ball and tracking back for his team.

His quick feet and smart positioning have led to some memorable cup runs. In the Leagues Cup, he uses his speed to stretch defenses and open up space. Back with Maritzburg United, he built a reputation for clutch moments—a habit he’s brought to Minnesota.

These cup performances have only raised his profile. Want more? Check his club profile and competitions.

Clubs and Competitions Played

From kicking off at local clubs to starring for Minnesota United FC in MLS, B. Hlongwane’s career has been all about steady progress.

His journey includes big moments in both the South African Premier Division and Major League Soccer in the U.S.

Nxamalala Fast XI Beginnings

B. Hlongwane’s football roots trace back to Nxamalala Fast XI, a local team from his hometown in KwaNxamalala, South Africa. It’s where he first experienced structured, competitive soccer outside of school.

Scouts started noticing him there, thanks to his speed and direct style. You could already spot the forward who loved breaking defenses and making those quick runs into space.

Training at Nxamalala Fast XI sharpened his skills and made him more versatile. Local clubs like this often launch future pros, and Hlongwane followed that path.

His time at Nxamalala led to trials and, soon enough, a contract with Maritzburg United.

Key Fact: Nxamalala Fast XI isn’t in the Premier Division, but it’s known for developing pro-level talent in South Africa.

Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila Clash

B. Hlongwane made his pro league debut with Maritzburg United in the South African Premier Division. One of his first standout games came against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila—a club that gives young talent a real test in the top flight.

In those league matches, Hlongwane adjusted quickly to the higher level. He faced some tough defenders but used his pace and timing to get in behind. That clash helped put him on the radar for South African soccer fans and club scouts.

Here’s a look at his early stats with Maritzburg United:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals
2019/2020	Maritzburg United	22	4
2020/2021	Maritzburg United	25	5

Those numbers show steady progress—and explain why MLS teams started paying attention.

Transition from South Africa to MLS

Let’s talk about Hlongwane’s jump from the Premier Division to Major League Soccer. You could feel the excitement—here’s a guy who wanted a new challenge, and Minnesota United FC saw something special in him.

They brought Hlongwane in to fire up their attack. He didn’t waste time adjusting; the pace and physicality in the U.S. didn’t seem to faze him at all.

When he started playing with those experienced internationals, you could see his decision making sharpen. His off-the-ball movement? That got better too.

In his debut season, Hlongwane locked down a regular starting spot. Before long, he hit a personal best for goals in a single MLS regular season.

He became just the fifth Minnesota United player to notch double digits in goals. That’s not something you see every day; it really showed his impact in the league.

Want more on his time with Minnesota United? You can check out his MLS profile for milestones and stats.

Honestly, Hlongwane’s ability to go from South African football to MLS shows that drive and versatility you love to see in top forwards.