Celine Abrahams

Masandawana’s depth is the envy of the continent - a squad stacked with internationals, specialists and system players built for dominance across competitions. But that strength comes with a cost: talented footballers slipping down the pecking order, roles shrinking, confidence fading and careers stalling under the weight of relentless competition in a team designed to win everything.

The Buccaneers boast enviable depth across the pitch, giving head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou options in every department. But that strength has a shadow side: talented players slipping down the pecking order, roles shrinking confidence fading, and careers stalling as competition intensifies in a squad built to challenge on all fronts.

The 20-year-old defender secured a reported $3 million (R50 million) transfer to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, but will join them only after representing South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations. He played his final match for Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Cup final, helping the Buccaneers lift the trophy before this new chapter abroad.

The South Africans last tasted continental glory almost 30 years ago on home soil, and with a hard-earned bronze medal from the most recent showpiece in the Ivory Coast, the spotlight shifts back onto Bafana Bafana as the nation eagerly watches to see whether this squad can push further and revive their pursuit of AFCON supremacy.

The 20-year-old, fresh from captaining the Buccaneers to their second cup triumph, clinching the Carling Knockout Cup just months after a fourth consecutive MTN8, has come under fire from the Belgian coach as Bafana Bafana gear up for the Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco from December 21.

The Buccaneers are strengthening their arsenal once again, securing another key signing as they intensify their push for league glory. With Pirates continuing their sweep through Western Cape talent, the Soweto giants are clearly gearing up to dominate on all fronts and leave no doubts about their title ambitions both in the Diski Challenge and in the Premier Soccer League.

Since co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze took charge following Nasreddine Nabi’s exit, Amakhosi fans have intensified their calls for management to appoint the decorated coach; a move many believe could stabilise the club, restore its competitive edge and fill one of South African football’s most demanding yet coveted roles.

The assistant coach has voiced frustration at FIFA’s ruling that clubs may delay releasing players until just before the Africa Cup of Nations. Moving away from the long‑standing policy of earlier release dates has sparked concern, with questions over fairness, respect and how such decisions impact preparation for Africa’s premier football tournament.

At one stage, Amakhosi were flying high at the very top of the PSL table, sparking talk of a title charge. Fast forward to the halfway stage of the campaign and Amakhosi now sit fourth, a spot that feels underwhelming after such a bright start. Fans expected the Glamour Boys to stay in the mix, but inconsistency has slowed their climb.

Amakhosi arrived at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday, December 7, determined to rediscover their winning touch after a midweek stalemate against Chippa United away in Gqeberha that left them frustrated. The Soweto giants sought momentum, while the Rockets looked to harness their home ground advantage to climb the league standings in front of their supporters.

The Premier Soccer League leaders marched into the final at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, December 6, chasing a second trophy of the campaign, having already lifted the MTN8 earlier in the season. Standing in their way were Bahlabane ba Ntwa, determined to script history by claiming their first-ever piece of major silverware in the top-flight.

Amakhosi wrapped up a spirited outing in the United Kingdom on Saturday, December 6, having faced Manchester United, Leeds United and QPR. The young guns seized the chance to test themselves against overseas opposition, showing grit and hunger while soaking up valuable lessons. A tour that toughened their resolve and showed they can rise to grander occasions.

The Belgian mentor recently unveiled his final 25‑man squad set to carry South Africa’s hopes at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. With a blend of seasoned campaigners and rising talents, the group will aim to showcase resilience, unity and ambition on the continental stage as Bafana Bafana prepare to fly the national flag high in pursuit of glory.

The Carling Knockout final is more than a trophy chase. For the Buccaneers, it’s a farewell stage for 20-year-old centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who departs for Major League Soccer after this match. For Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, it’s a chance to etch their name into history. One night, two stories and a stadium braced for destiny.

Amakhosi endured a frustrating evening as they were held to a goalless stalemate by bottom‑placed Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Wednesday, December 3. Chiefs controlled large spells of possession and carved out chances but failed to convert, leaving them to settle for a single point in their Premier Soccer League away fixture.

The Glamour Boys made the trip to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Wednesday, December 3, locking horns with the struggling Chilli Boys in a crucial league clash. Having last featured in PSL action before the international break, Chiefs returned to domestic duty after balancing the demands of their ongoing CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

Five months into his tenure at the Bloemfontein outfit, Alexandre Lafitte has already driven the side to a major cup final. On Saturday, 6 December, the stage shifts to Polokwane where they clash with the mighty Buccaneers in the Carling Knockout Cup showdown - a battle for silverware and a shot at history.

The Cape Winelands side travelled to Zanzibar for their Group C clash against their Tanzanian opponents at Amaan Stadium on Sunday, 30 November. Having opened this phase of the tournament with a 1‑0 win over AS Otoho d’Oyo, Stellies were determined to build on that momentum and reclaim top spot in the pool, keeping their continental ambitions firmly alive.