Lucas Ribeiro, Relebohile Mofokeng, Keletso Makgalwa and GOAL’s Premier Soccer League Team of the Season for 2024-25

Choosing the goalkeeper for the Team of the Season was no easy task, it was a decision that required weighing both quality and consistency. On one hand, Ronwen Williams delivered outstanding numbers: 11 clean sheets and just six goals conceded in only 16 league games. That translates to a clean sheet rate of 69%, by far the best in the league. 

But, bring in Sipho Chaine - the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper played 25 league matches, matched Williams’ 11 clean sheets and conceded only 18 goals - a solid return across a much larger sample. While Elvis Chipezeze also deserves recognition for his 10 clean sheets in 26 games, the 28 goals he conceded ultimately work against his case. In the end, the goalkeeper’s role in a Team of the Season should reward not just peak performance, but sustained excellence over the season and Chaine delivered exactly that.

The right-back position was hotly contested, but Khuliso Mudau ultimately claims the spot and yes, we’re aware he only featured in 16 league games. However, unlike the goalkeeper debate we just had, where game time is crucial for accumulating clean sheets and limiting goals conceded, full-backs are judged just as much on their influence at both ends of the pitch. And in that regard, Mudau made a massive impact every time he played.

He not only defended with grit but also offered an attacking edge, scoring two goals, more than any other right-back in the mix. Thapelo Morena played more (24 games), scoring one goal, while Deano van Rooyen made 20 appearances with a goal to his name.

The Namibian proved to be one of the most influential players for Orlando Pirates this season, not just defensively, but in driving the team forward. Featuring in 25 league matches, Hotto brought experience, versatility and a tireless work rate to the role.

He chipped in with 3 goals and often acted as the spark down the left flank, linking play and stretching opposition defences. His ability to seamlessly transition from defence to attack gave Pirates a valuable edge, especially in tight games. 

Sibisi was a rock at the heart of the Pirates defence this season, bringing composure and grit into the backline. Featuring in 25 league matches, he was ever-present and dependable, showcasing his ability to read the game and dominate aerial duels. 

He wasn’t just solid defensively, he also chipped in with 2 goals, proving to be a threat on set pieces. His leadership at the back allowed others around him to play with more freedom and his calmness under pressure made him one of the most reliable centre-backs in the division.

The 26-year-old was a pillar of consistency for Stellenbosch this season, delivering standout performances week in and week out. Featuring in 26 league matches, the defender was not only ever-present but remarkably reliable, the kind of player you could pencil into the starting XI without hesitation. 

He chipped in with two goals, but it was his defensive work that truly set him apart. Whether it was snuffing out danger with perfectly timed tackles or rising above the rest in aerial battles, Moloisane played with a calm authority. Several of his displays were Man of the Match-worthy, and he played a crucial role in Stellenbosch’s strong campaign. Rock solid, dependable and fearless, Moloisane fully deserves his spot. 

In the engine room, Makhehlene Makhaula was the unsung hero who made everything tick for Pirates. With 22 league appearances and a goal to his name, his value went far beyond the stats. Makhaula brought grit, discipline and unmatched work rate to the midfield - always willing to do the dirty work so others could shine. 

Whether it was breaking up play, covering ground or shielding the back four, he provided the kind of stability Pirates simply couldn’t do without. His presence allowed the Buccaneers to maintain balance and structure, especially in high-pressure matches. No flair, no fuss - just pure graft and that’s why Makhaula earns his place.

Mokoena was once again the heartbeat ofSundowns’ midfield, dictating the tempo and orchestrating play with a level of composure and intelligence that few can match. Featuring in 23 league games, Mokoena combined consistency with class, contributing two goals along the way. 

Whether spraying pinpoint passes, controlling transitions, or breaking up opposition attacks, he was everywhere - a true box-to-box presence. His ability to read the game and make things look effortless allowed Sundowns to dominate possession and control matches from start to finish. 

While he often operated further forward, Lucas Ribeiro slots into the attacking midfield role in this lineup and rightly so, considering the firepower he brought to Sundowns this season. The Brazilian is the PSL’s top scorer with 16 goals in 27 league appearances, showcasing his clinical finishing, intelligent movement and ability to link up play in dangerous areas. 

Ribeiro wasn’t just a goal poacher; he was a vital creative spark, often drifting into pockets of space to unlock defences or drag markers out of position. With his flair and killer instinct, he was a constant threat and one of the key reasons Sundowns remained dominant throughout the campaign.

The President of the 2000s truly blossomed this season, becoming one ofPirates’ most influential players. At just 20 years old, he showed maturity beyond his years, featuring in 26 league games and scoring five goals. 

Whether gliding past defenders or making decisive runs, Mofokeng brought flair, confidence and a fearless attitude to the Pirates’ attack. But it wasn’t just about flair - he consistently delivered in high-pressure moments, showing composure and decision-making well beyond his age. His growth this season has been nothing short of remarkable, and with performances like these, he’s no longer just a rising star; he’s already a game-changer.

If there was ever a player who thrived on creating magic for others, it was Makgalwa. Sekhukhune United’s livewire attacker delivered an outstanding season, finishing as the top assist provider in the league with 11 assists in 28 matches and even chipped in with four goals. 

Whether cutting in from the left or ghosting into dangerous pockets, Makgalwa had the vision, pace and creativity to unlock defences and set up his teammates with precision. 

Rayners hit the ground running in his debut season for Sundowns, proving he belongs on the big stage. The sharp-shooter finished second on the PSL top scorers list with 14 goals in 26 league appearances, just behind his teammate Lucas Ribeiro. 

The ex-Stellenbosch forward brought a different edge to Sundowns’ attack - quick, instinctive and always in the right place at the right time. Whether poaching goals in the box or finishing off slick team moves, he consistently delivered when it mattered. In a team packed with stars, Rayners carved out his own spotlight and became an essential figure in their title charge.