Full Name: Helman Nkosiyethu Mkhalele 
Nickname: Midnight-Express 
Date of Birth: 20 October 1969 
Place of Birth: Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 
Profession: Former Professional Footballer, Football Coach 
Notable Roles: Orlando Pirates Legend, AFCON 1996 Winner, FIFA World Cup 1998 Player, SA National Team Assistant Coach

Early Life and Football Roots

Born on 20 October 1969 in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, Helman Mkhalele grew up in a football-oriented family, with brothers Sydney and Lazarus also playing professionally. From a young age, Helman showed the flair and discipline that would later define his career.

Youth and Professional Career Development

Mkhalele began his youth football with Chippa Dynamos before signing with Jomo Cosmos in 1990. He quickly rose to prominence as a gifted attacking midfielder.

Jomo Cosmos (1990–1993):
– Appearances: 97 
– Goals: 25 
– Established himself as one of the league’s top midfielders

In 1991, he won the NSL rookie of the year. Check out this megazine cover from 1991. Posted in a facebook group by Trevor Cramer.

Orlando Pirates Glory Years
In 1993, Helman joined Orlando Pirates, where he became a fan favourite and club legend. Eugene Zwane shared a photo of him and Helman Mkhalele taking a malaria shot just before travelling to Nigeria to play in CAF Champions League in 1995.

Achievements at Pirates:
– 1994 National Soccer League Champion 
– 1995 African Cup of Champions Clubs Winner (now CAF Champions League) 
– Key contributor to the club’s golden era 
– Formed a deadly midfield presence with his pace, skill, and stamina

His performances earned him the nickname “Midnight-Express”, thanks to his ability to tirelessly dominate the flanks and deliver late-game brilliance. His team mates called him “Ncane”, meaning Small, probably because of his tiny body frame at the time.

European Adventure – Turkey
After making his mark in South Africa, Mkhalele moved to Turkey, where he played for:
– Kayserispor 
– Ankaragücü 
– Malatyaspor 
– Göztepe

He adapted to European football with ease and became a respected figure among Turkish fans, showcasing the global talent of South African footballers.

International Career – Flying the Flag for Bafana Bafana

With Bafana team mates: Steve Komphela, Philemon Masinga and Fani Madida.

Helman Mkhalele earned 66 caps and scored 8 goals for South Africa.

Highlights:
– 1996 AFCON Winner – Part of the historic team that won the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil 
– 1998 FIFA World Cup Participant – Represented South Africa in their second World Cup appearance in France 
– Known for his humility, discipline, and commitment to the badge

Life After Football – Coaching and Business

After retiring in 2005, Mkhalele took on coaching and business roles:
– Assistant Coach – South African National Team and U-23 squad 
– Facilitator – KBC Health and Safety Company 
– Entrepreneur – Owned a furniture business 
– Continues to mentor and develop young players

He also holds a Diploma in Education from Soweto College, underlining his belief in education and structured leadership.

Helmen Mkhalele Becomes Bafana Bafana Assistant Coach:

In 2021, the Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, appointed Helman Mkhalele as his assistant coach. Broos praised Mkhalele for his great knowledge of the game.

Personal Life
Helman Mkhalele is currently single and lives in Roodepoort, South Africa. He’s known for his quiet, grounded lifestyle and is deeply respected within the football and local business communities.

Legacy and Recognition
Helman Mkhalele’s legacy is one of:
– Glory on the pitch 
– Service off the pitch 
– Dedication to uplifting South African football

From NSL titles to continental victories, his journey from township fields to World Cup stadiums is an inspiration to players across Africa.

Summary Profile

Name: Helman Nkosiyethu Mkhalele 
Nickname: Midnight-Express 
Date of Birth: 20 October 1969 
Place of Birth: Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal 
Profession: Former Player, Coach

Clubs Played For:
– Jomo Cosmos (1990–1993) 
– Orlando Pirates (1993–1997) 
– Kayserispor 
– Ankaragücü 
– Malatyaspor 
– Göztepe

National Team: South Africa 
Caps: 66 
Goals: 8 
Tournaments:
– AFCON 1996 (Winner) 
– FIFA World Cup 1998 (France)

Post-Retirement:
– SAFA National Teams Assistant Coach 
– Business Owner and Facilitator 
– Educator and Mentor