The best is yet to come from Nkosi - Downs coach Badela

Mamelodi Sundowns DStv Diski Challenge coach Sinethemba Badela has heaped praise on talented midfielder Ntando Nkosi, saying his best version is yet to come.

Nkosi was named Diski Challenge player of the season at the Premier Soccer League (PSL) Awards this past Sunday.

He beat Stellenbosch FC dribbling wizard Langelihle Phili and Cape Town City’s scoring machine Jody Ah-Shene to clinch the gong.

Talking to the website, the Sundowns coach said it was a well-deserved award for the 22-year-old.

"We are very proud of his (Nkosi) achievement. Last season (2023-24) was his second season in the first team but he never gave us attitude when he was called to play in the Diski Challenge," said Badela.

"He was always motivated and gave his best each and every match, he showed leadership qualities. I still think we are yet to see the best of him."

Badela who finished second in the Diski Challenge title race said he is also hoping that the award will push Ntando to reach greater heights and get his place in the star-studded Sundowns first team.

Despite not winning the Diski league title, Badela said he was happy with the progress of his players as most of them were playing in the Diski for the first time.

He added: "It was an interesting season and there were a lot of positives. Seeing some of these players getting minutes in the first team was a moment to be proud of, for me it is a win."

Next season, Sundowns' will be going for a the title as the core of his squad now has experience in the Diski Challenge.

"Next season would be much better as the squad has gained some experience; they (players) now understand the league. That would help us, especially towards the end of the season, that is where the difference was between us and Stellenbosch," concluded ambitious Badela.