Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro, Mamelodi Sundowns star Ribeiro Costa, and Stellenbosch FC’s Fawaaz Basadien scoop monthly PSL awards

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro, Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa, and Stellenbosch left-back Fawaaz Basadien have won the September and October PSL awards. 

The Spanish tactician has gracefully secured the PSL Coach of the Month award for September and October 2024, after leading the Buccaneers undefeated during these months.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian star was awarded the Player of the Month title as recognition for his exceptional performances throughout the season so far.

Furthermore, Stellies standout performer Basadien, who has garnered recognition from Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, clinched the Goal of the Month accolade. 

"Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has been awarded the Betway Premiership Coach of the Month for September and October 2024. The Spanish tactician led the Buccaneers to a flawless start in the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, guiding his team to victory in each of their first six matches," reads the PSL statement.

"Riveiro edged out strong competition from Polokwane City head coach Phuti Mohafe and Mamelodi Sundowns mentor Manqoba Mngqithi to claim the accolade. Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa was named Betway Premiership Player of the Month. The Brazilian-born star maintained his impressive form, scoring four goals and delivering two assists to help the defending champions secure a strong start to the season.

"Ribeiro Costa emerged as the winner, outperforming Orlando Pirates players Sipho Chaine, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Deon Hotto. Additionally, Stellenbosch FC’s Fawaaz Basadien secured the Betway Premiership Goal of the Month award for his spectacular long-range goal from his own half against Cape Town City at Athlone Stadium on 25 September 2024," the league added.

"Basadien’s remarkable strike triumphed over notable goals by Chippa United’s Andile Jali and Orlando Pirates’ promising youngster Mohau Nkota."

The monthly awards for September and October 2024 in the PSL were evaluated by a respected panel.

Riveiro's Pirates are currently at the top of the PSL standings, having emerged victorious in all seven of their opening league matches.

Ribeiro, who had a stunning debut campaign last term, has picked up where he left off this season with some eye-catching performances.

The Brazilian has been so impressive that some have suggested Hugo Broos should consider calling him up to represent Bafana Bafana since he can't crack the Brazil national team squad.

As for Basadien, he has been one of the standout players for Stellies in the last few seasons, resulting in some interest from some of the big clubs in the PSL.

The Premier Soccer League will have a brief pause in the schedule due to the upcoming Fifa international break. The league will resume on November 26.

For now, several players from the league will be representing their respective national teams. Basadien has been included in the Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan.