Another thrilling Premier Soccer League season has come to an end, delivering drama at both ends of the table as the title race and relegation battle went down to the final day. Orlando Pirates ended their 14-year wait for league glory, while Orbit College FC suffered relegation heartbreak.
With awards season now underway, it is time to recognise the standout performers who consistently delivered across a demanding campaign. Here is Diski Voice’s PSL Team of the Season for 2025/26, selected based on influence, consistency and overall impact on their respective teams.
Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine (Pirates)
Chaine’s performances between the sticks played a massive role in helping Pirates reclaim league glory for the first time in 14 years.
The reigning PSL Goalkeeper of the Season delivered countless title-saving moments throughout the campaign, finishing with an astonishing 21 clean sheets in 30 league matches. His save percentage of 76.9% further underlined his consistency and dominance, while the 21 clean sheets set a new PSL record.
Right Back — Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City)
Matuludi enjoyed a breakout season filled with energy, aggression and attacking intent. Defensively disciplined yet adventurous going forward, Matuludi consistently stretched opposition defences while maintaining composure in one-on-one situations.
His outstanding performances also caught the eye of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who included him in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations wand the 27 year odl has now positioned himself as a strong contender to feature for Bafana at the FIFA World Cup this winter.
Centre Back — Lebone Seema (Pirates)
Another player who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign was Seema. Elegant on the ball and composed defensively, Seema established himself as one of the league’s most intelligent defenders.
His anticipation, calmness under pressure and excellent reading of the game made him a key pillar in his side’s defensive structure throughout the season.
Centre Back — Aiden McCarthy (Chiefs)
McCarthy emerged as one of the shining lights in a much-improved Chiefs defence. He brought authority and consistency to the heart of the backline which demonstrated maturity beyond his years.
Left Back — Aubrey Modiba (Sundowns)
Experience, versatility and quality once again defined Modiba’s season. Whether defending deep or contributing in advanced attacking phases, Modiba remained influential throughout the campaign.
Central Midfielder — Thalente Mbatha (Pirates)
Mbatha became an indispensable figure in Pirates’ midfield this season. His temperament, physical presence and composure allowed Pirates to dominate crucial midfield battles, while his influence was reflected in the team’s remarkable consistency whenever he featured. Mbatha’s ball-winning ability, relentless work rate and growing confidence in possession continue to highlight his evolution into one of the PSL’s most complete midfielders.
Central Midfielder — Teboho Mokoena (Sundowns)
Few midfielders in African football are as complete as Mokoena. Once again, he showcased his elite quality by dictating matches from midfield, scored spectacular long-range goals while consistently operating at the highest level throughout the season.
Attacking Midfielder — Relebohile Mofokeng (Pirates)
The rise of Mofokeng has been one of the defining stories of the PSL campaign. Fearless, creative and technically gifted, Mofokeng thrilled supporters with his dribbling ability, vision and composure in big matches. His return of 10 goals and eight assists in 27 matches further highlighted his influence and underlined why he is regarded as one of South African football’s brightest young stars.
Right Forward — Oswin Appollis (Pirates)
Appollis continued to prove why he is regarded as one of the country’s most exciting attacking players.
Direct, skilful and unpredictable, Appollis consistently troubled defenders with his pace and creativity in the final third. His tally of nine goals and six assists played a major role in Pirates’ memorable treble-winning campaign.
Left Forward — Tashreeq Matthews (Sundwons)
Explosive and technically gifted, Matthews’ movement, flair and ability to unlock defences added a different dimension to Sundowns’ attack, which explains why he featured in all 30 league matches during the campaign.
Centre Forward — Junior Dion (Golden Arrows)
Dion led the line superbly for Arrows, finishing the season as the league’s top scorer with 14 goals in 27 appearances.
His hold-up play, movement inside the penalty area and knack for delivering in decisive moments made him one of the PSL’s most effective forwards this season.
Bench
The depth of talent across the league is reflected by a strong bench featuring players who also consistently delivered quality performances throughout the campaign:
* Brandon Petersen
* Khuliso Mudau
* Deon Hotto
* Nkosinathi Sibisi
* Marcelo Allende
* Siyanda Ndlovu
* Brayan León
Coach of the Season — Abdeslam Ouaddou
Ouaddou earns the nod after masterminding a historic treble-winning campaign with Orlando Pirates.
Beyond ending Mamelodi Sundowns’ incredible run of eight consecutive league titles, Ouaddou successfully transformed the Buccaneers into a disciplined, fearless and tactically balanced side. His ability to maximise the strengths of his squad, inspire belief and consistently deliver in high-pressure moments highlighted his leadership and influence throughout the season.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
