The Brazilians are in West Africa as they continue their quest to lift the continental trophy for the first time since 2016. After finishing as losing finalists in this competition last season, they are determined to go one step further this time around. With that painful memory still fresh, they are pushing hard to turn last year’s disappointment into continental glory.
In recent weeks, Amakhosi were under immense pressure following elimination from two competitions and a four-match losing run. Bowing out of the CAF Confederation Cup and the Nedbank Cup, plus Premier Soccer League losses, shattered their ambitions to end the season with at least one piece of silverware. While their chances of claiming a PSL title are slim, what is certainly reachable is a top-three finish.
The 27-year-old centre-back has been with the Cape Winelands outfit since July 2023 and has now attracted interest from the Soweto giants. However, a move to Naturena will depend on whether Amakhosi decide to reinforce their central defence after recently facing a crisis in that department.
The Masandawana star is starting to play week in and week out again after he was sidelined by a lengthy injury before. The few minutes he has been given by the Downs' technical bench saw the attacking midfielder return to the national team fold. The big concern now is whether the 36-year-old will be fit beyond the season and play in the World Cup finals.
The Premier Soccer League campaign continues with a lot to play for among teams. At stake is winning the title race, earning a spot to play continental football next season, as well as avoiding the dreaded relegation at the end of the season.
The former Masandawana star was a crucial figure for the Sea Robbers in the first round of the season. However, after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations finals, his playtime reduced. Part of the reason why the 27-year-old has sparingly featured for the Soweto giants is because the midfielder was recovering from an injury.
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.