The Bucs boss has offered an honest evaluation of the current state of football in the country, claiming a lack of physical intensity is holding teams back. After a series of frustrating results for his side, the Moroccan tactician believes the local game must evolve to mirror the demands of continental competition.
With everything at stake in the Ke Yona final, the Rockets bore the burden of expectation as they aimed to steady a disappointing Premier Soccer League campaign and relive their greatest moment in the competition, lifting the trophy at Moses Mabhida Stadium against Kaizer Chiefs in 2019, back when they were still in the First National Division. On the other side, the league newcomers embraced a golden opportunity to write their names into the history books and end KwaZulu-Natal’s long wait for silverware, with a chance to reignite the province’s cup pedigree.
The former Amakhosi captain has spoken candidly about the intense scrutiny and fan hostility he faced during his final chapters at Naturena. Despite being a polarizing figure among the the Glamour Boys faithful, the midfielder insists the negative atmosphere only served to harden his resolve before his move to Europe.
The veteran coach has sensationally suggested that high-profile Soweto giants' signings lack the mental fortitude required to succeed at Naturena. The former Amakhosi tactician believes that while the pair possess undeniable talent, the psychological weight of playing for South Africa’s biggest club may be too heavy for them to carry.
The Portuguese mentor has played down any suggestion that the Tshwane giants are playing second fiddle to Orlando Pirates in the goalscoring stakes. While the Buccaneers currently boast a superior goal difference to the Brazilians, the Masandawana coach remains adamant that clinical consistency and a relentless focus on maximum points will be the true decider in the wide-open league title race.
The Babina Noko midfielder has issued a firm warning regarding the future of South African football, insisting that the country must do more to retain its top coaching talent. The PSL veteran highlighted a worrying trend of local tactical experts seeking opportunities abroad rather than staying to develop the next generation of domestic stars.
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.