‘It Would Be An Honour’: Kalongo Hopeful To Represent South Africa

Following a season with Forge that saw goalkeeper Christopher Kalongo battle for a starting role in Canada’s top flight, he’s revealed his aspirations to represent the South African national team one day.

The Oakville native has a South African mother who immigrated to Canada in her adult life, with Kalongo still having plenty of family in the Rainbow Nation on his mother’s side. While the 22-year-old goalkeeper hasn’t been contacted by the national team, he’s hopeful his performances in Canada’s top flight might draw eyes from camp officials.

“It’s an important place for my Mother and the rest of my family,” he says of his maternal home. “We make trips out there as much as we can, and it would be an honour to be considered or called to the camp for the national team there.”

This season saw the 22-year-old step into a starting role following the departure of Triston Henry in the spring. He featured in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Chivas Guadalajara and ultimately made twenty appearances as he split duties with Jassem Koleilat.

‘I Trust My Ability’: Kalongo Enjoying Opportunity To Impress As Forge Starter

South Africa is coached by Belgian boss Hugo Broos, who has assembled a squad that is almost entirely comprised of athletes who play domestically in the country’s top flight. That includes goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams and his backup Ricardo Goss.

Broos has trialed other goalkeepers this year, with Veli Mothwa and Bruce Bvuma – who also play in the South African Premiership – earning starts in 2024.

South Africa is currently ranked 57th in the FIFA World Rankings, with Broos helping them to the highest ranking the country has seen since 2015.

Kalongo has risen through the Forge FC rankings over the years, initially arriving from semi-pro League1 Ontario side Sigma FC on a development deal in 2021 and serving as Triston Henry’s understudy leading up to the latter’s departure. When the club’s original number one left this season, Kalongo claimed 20 of his career’s 22 professional appearances.

Kalongo also has Kenyan heritage through his father’s side, and – while born in Canada – has yet to receive interest from 31-ranked Canada.

Header Image Photo Credit: John Jacques