South Africa are stepping up their preparations for the upcoming global football tournament, with recent international friendlies serving as a key measure of their progress. Their performances against Central American opponents have come under scrutiny. A former Orlando Pirates player has weighed in, checking the squad’s readiness.
The Glamour Boys have rediscovered their form in the Premier Soccer League following the initial struggles that saw them lose ground to defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns and rivals Orlando Pirates. On Wednesday, they face Dikwena Tsa Meetse at Peter Mokaba Stadium, hoping to complete a double in their bid to finish in the top three.
The two took over early in the season from coach Nasreddine Nabi, who was fired just six Premier Soccer League games into the 2025/26 edition. They have had their shortcomings but still delivered arguably for the club, especially in the South African top-flight football.
The Brazilians are gearing up to host their Tunisian opponents, but they will be without one of their key defenders for the clash. His absence comes as a setback ahead of such a crucial encounter, but the Tshwane giants have been urged not to lose sleep over his unavailability.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper is currently unattached as he carefully weighs up his next move after parting ways with Chippa United. He has listed South Africa as a preferred destination, fuelling speculation about a potential switch. This comes amid reported interest from Amakhosi, who have recently been grappling with a goalkeeping crisis.
The Soweto giants are expected to appoint a new coach at the end of the season, with Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef likely to make way. A number of names have already been thrown into the mix as speculation over the next appointment intensifies.
The PSL was founded in 1996 after the National Soccer League and the National Professional Soccer League agreed to merge into one body.
Who sponsors the Premier Soccer League?
In July 2024 it was announced that Betway would take over from DSTV as the naming rights sponsor for the league in a deal reported to be worth R900 million over 3 years.
How many teams are in the PSL?
16 teams are licensed to participate in the PSL league.
Who runs the PSL?
The Board of governors elects the chairman and the executive committee who are appointed in an election process that takes place every four years.
Who has won the league title the most?
Mamelodi Sundowns have won the league 14 times, including the last 7 titles in a row.
Which club holds the record for the most goals scored in a season?
Kaizer Chiefs scored 73 goals in the 2010-2011 season.
Which club has amassed the most points in a single PSL season?
Mamelodi Sundowns earned 73 points while winning the league title in the 2023-24 season.
Which player scored the most goals in a single PSL season?
Collins Mbesuma for Kaizer Chiefs in the 2004-05 season.
Who holds the PSL appearance record?
Edries Burton made 316 appearances for Santos Cape Town, Cape Town Spurs and AmaZulu.