Kutlwano Letlhaku: Growing with the Game

Kutlwano Letlhaku

Growing with the Game

Author: Erica Mathye

Those who were at Lucas Moripe Stadium on the 17th of March 2024 when Mamelodi Sundowns hosted Maritzburg United (now known as Durban City FC) in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 will surely remember with excitement, the introduction of the then 17-year-old Kutlwano Letlhaku to top-flight football.

Just days before his 18th birthday, wearing the number 46 jersey, Letlhaku was called from the bench for the final 20 minutes of the match. In a lively appearance, he gave a glimpse of his potential, providing an assist to Thembinkosi Lorch’s goal in added time, sealing an already impressive performance by the team. Reflecting on that day, Letlhaku describes it as a defining moment, made even more special by the support he received from his teammates.

“When I was at camp for the first time with the First Team, I spent a lot of time with Peter Shalulile. He is known for his motivation, and he did engage me. He encouraged me to give my all, and that is exactly what I did. He helped me get into the right mental space before the game. When I was waiting on the touchline to come in, I was told it was my time to shine, and the Coach reassured me that he believed I could help the team.”

Letlhaku’s journey has been marked by steady progression. After spending five years at the SAFA Transnet School of Excellence, he was scouted by the Mamelodi Sundowns Academy in 2023. His swift promotion to the Diski Team ahead of the 2023/24 campaign saw him flourish in the DStv Diski Challenge, where his outstanding performances paved the way for his inclusion in the First Team and the U20 national men’s team. Throughout this journey, his family’s unwavering support has been his greatest motivation.

“I was overwhelmed when I got called up for pre-season. I knew I had to work hard to earn a spot in the First Team. My family has always been my biggest support system, and that has kept me going. I push myself every day because I want to make them proud,” Letlhaku shared.

The confidence the Sundowns coaching staff has placed in young players has allowed the Soweto-born forward to develop at his own pace. While he continues to learn and grow, his contributions so far have been encouraging. Letlhaku acknowledges that exposure to top-flight football is essential for his development.
“The PSL is a different ball game from other leagues, so I set achievable goals for myself. I have already grown beyond what I imagined. Having access to my role models has helped me to improve my game,” Letlhaku admitted.

“I look up to Lucas Ribeiro Costa the most. He, along with the senior players, have guided me and helped shape my approach to the game. Watching them has shown me that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything.”

For those who have watched Letlhaku play, it is clear that he possesses something special. His composure on the ball, precise dribbling, intelligent passing and natural finishing ability are exciting to witness.

However, as he continues to learn and develop, the focus remains on nurturing his talent rather than placing unnecessary pressure on him. With a combination of skill, determination and a solid support system, the future is bright for Letlhaku, and he is embracing the journey—one step at a time.

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