Hlongwane scored the decisive goal as Bafana Bafana clinched a crucial win in a Group G 2022 World Cup qualifier at FNB Stadium on Monday.
Kobola, who worked previously with the striker at Maritzburg United is not surprised by the Hlongwane's development in a Bafana jersey.
"What has impressed me most is his progress with Bafana Bafana.
"He has grabbed the opportunity with both hands and keeps on improving.
"You can see that he also learnt a lot playing with Thabiso Kutumela at Maritzburg United.
"He has done well so far with Bafana Bafana, but let's not put pressure on him to score goals for Bafana Bafana, let's allow him space to grow.
"The goals will come as he continues to grow and get more experience, but for now let's not put too many expectations on him.
"The goal he scored yesterday against Ghana will go long way to boost his confidence.
"He is my boy and I am happy to see him succeeding in his soccer career because he is such a lovely, disciplined and respectful youngster."
Kobola also praised fellow striker, Evidence Makgopa's performance who was unlucky to not score.
"He tends to score the more difficult goals and miss the simpler chances," Kobola added.
"But like Hlongwane, he has made huge progress and he is improving a lot."
