The Premier Soccer League hosted its annual Betway Premiership Awards on Tuesday evening, concluding the 2024/25 domestic football season with a virtual ceremony that was streamed live across multiple platforms. Despite the lack of a physical event, the digital production was a slick, well-paced affair that brought together players, coaches, officials and fans to honour standout performers across South Africa’s top divisions.

It was a night that reinforced the influence of Mamelodi Sundowns, celebrated the rise of young talent, and acknowledged consistent excellence in key positions. With the season wrapped up in May, the awards brought closure to a long and competitive campaign that spanned the DStv Premiership, MTN8, Nedbank Cup, Carling Knockout, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and the DStv Diski Challenge.

Lucas Ribeiro Dominates with Four Major Awards

There were no surprises when Lucas Ribeiro Costa was named Footballer of the Season. The Brazilian striker was the heartbeat of Sundowns’ attack, scoring 16 goals in all competitions, creating numerous chances, and leading the line with maturity. His ability to influence matches in tight spaces and high-pressure moments stood out throughout the campaign.

His fellow professionals echoed this by voting him as the Players’ Player of the Season, while his stunning long-range goal against Orlando Pirates earned him Goal of the Season honours. He also picked up the Top Goalscorer award with 16 league goals, completing a remarkable debut campaign in South African football and underlining his reputation as one of the league’s best imports in recent years.

Orlando Pirates’ Defensive and Midfield Grit Earn Recognition

Orlando Pirates may have fallen short of the league title, but their ability to compete in cup competitions and deliver solid individual performances was evident in the awards. The club produced multiple winners in key defensive and midfield categories. Sipho Chaine, the club’s No.1, walked away with the Goalkeeper of the Season award following a strong campaign where he kept several clean sheets, particularly in high-stakes fixtures. His penalty heroics and composure under pressure were hallmarks of Pirates’ deep runs in both the MTN8 and Carling Knockout competitions.

Nkosinathi Sibisi, a central figure in the Pirates backline, was honoured as Defender of the Season. His timing, leadership and reliability made him a cornerstone in the team’s structure. Meanwhile, Makhehleni Makhaula, a tireless engine in midfield, earned Midfielder of the Season, a reward for his work rate and transitional play that anchored Pirates in tough battles.

Breakthrough Season for Relebohile Mofokeng

If there was one player who embodied youthful promise this season, it was Relebohile Mofokeng. The teenage sensation won Young Player of the Season and was also named MTN8 Last Man Standing for his contributions during the tournament.

At just 19, Mofokeng’s maturity and ability to deliver in clutch moments made him one of the most exciting talents to watch. Whether operating as a winger or an attacking midfielder, he displayed flair, discipline and a sharp football IQ that marks him as a future Bafana Bafana regular.

Cardoso’s Command Earns Him Coach of the Season

Miguel Cardoso, in his first full season in charge of Mamelodi Sundowns, was deservedly named Coach of the Season. He guided the club to their eighth consecutive DStv Premiership title, maintaining their domestic dominance with a brand of calculated, possession-heavy football.

His rotation of an already deep squad and ability to keep his side focused across multiple competitions were lauded by critics and peers alike. Under Cardoso, Sundowns finished the league season unbeaten and conceded the fewest goals.

Recognition for Cup Performers

The PSL also honoured standouts in domestic cup competitions. Pule Mmodi of Kaizer Chiefs was named Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament, a bright spot in what was a turbulent season for Amakhosi. His dynamism, goals and commitment pushed Chiefs deep into the competition.

Meanwhile, Mbekezeli Mbokazi of Orlando Pirates took the Most Promising Player in the Nedbank Cup after playing key roles in tight knockout ties. In the Carling Knockout, veteran keeper Elvis Chipezeze of Magesi FC earned the top prize after a string of man-of-the-match performances that helped his team reach the latter stages.

Lower Division Stars Shine Bright

The Motsepe Foundation Championship was not left out. Muzomuhle Khanyi of Hungry Lions won both the Top Scorer and Players’ Player of the Season awards. His attacking output was instrumental in his team’s top-half finish.

In the DStv Diski Challenge, Tylon Smith of Stellenbosch FC stood out as Player of the Season, while Siphamandla Msezane of Orlando Pirates ended as Top Scorer, confirming the Diski Challenge’s growing importance as a pipeline to first-team football.

Match Officials Acknowledged

The PSL also took time to appreciate the role of referees and assistants in upholding the integrity of the game. Masixole Bambiso was named Referee of the Season, while Kgara Mokoena earned the Assistant Referee of the Season nod.

Full List of Winners – PSL Awards 2024/25

Footballer of the Season: Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Players’ Player of the Season: Lucas Ribeiro Costa

Top Goalscorer: Lucas Ribeiro Costa

Goal of the Season: Lucas Ribeiro Costa

Coach of the Season: Miguel Cardoso (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Goalkeeper of the Season: Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defender of the Season: Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates)

Midfielder of the Season: Makhehleni Makhaula (Orlando Pirates)

Young Player of the Season: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)

MTN8 Last Man Standing: Relebohile Mofokeng

Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament: Pule Mmodi (Kaizer Chiefs)

Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player: Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates)

Carling Knockout Player of the Tournament: Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC)

Motsepe Championship Players’ Player: Muzomuhle Khanyi (Hungry Lions)

Motsepe Championship Top Scorer: Muzomuhle Khanyi

Diski Challenge Player of the Season: Tylon Smith (Stellenbosch FC)

Diski Challenge Top Scorer: Siphamandla Msezane (Orlando Pirates)

Referee of the Season: Masixole Bambiso

Assistant Referee of the Season: Kgara Mokoena