Author: Rethabile Nyelele

As of the six completed matchdays, updated to 25 March 2025, nine African nations have already secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These teams qualified by finishing top of their respective CAF groups in what has been one of the most competitive African qualification campaigns in recent memory. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Format and Stakes CAF’s qualification structure for the expanded World Cup involves 53 nations split into nine groups of six. Each group winner earns automatic qualification. Meanwhile, the four best second-placed teams will…

It’s been a rollercoaster year in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), with coaching changes dominating headlines across the country. As the pressure to deliver results intensifies, clubs are showing less patience with underperformance, no matter the coach’s credentials. The 2024/25 season has already seen several high-profile sackings that reflect a volatile environment for local tacticians. Here’s a look at five PSL coaches who were dismissed during a turbulent campaign. 1. Lehlohonolo Seema – Sekhukhune United On 6 March 2025, Sekhukhune United made headlines by dismissing Lehlohonolo Seema just hours after a pre-match press conference for their Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash against…

The SAFA D Coaching License serves as the official entry-level qualification for aspiring football coaches in the country. The course targets individuals eager to coach grassroots and youth football, primarily working with players under-6 to under-12. The course introduces key coaching fundamentals such as training methods, session planning, basic tactics, player development, and team management. This license not only opens doors to coaching in schools and community clubs but also forms the foundation for advancing to higher certifications like the SAFA C, B, and A licenses. Who Is Eligible, and When Should You Apply? Minimum Requirements Applicants must usually be…

Mamelodi Sundowns’ attacking sensation Lucas Ribeiro has heaped praise on his teammates and club following an unforgettable season that saw him claim four major accolades at the Premier Soccer League (PSL) end-of-season awards. The Brazilian forward said the recognition would not have been possible without the collective efforts of those around him. PSL Awards Night Belongs to Lucas Ribeiro Ribeiro emerged as the biggest winner during the PSL Awards, which were broadcast on Tuesday night, walking away with the Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards, the two highest honours in the local game. His outstanding…

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has made it clear that none of the recently crowned World Rugby U20 Championship stars will don the green and gold at the senior Test level this season. Despite their impressive showing in Italy, Bathobele Hlekani, Cheswill Jooste, and Haashim Pead will not be part of the Springboks’ match-day plans in 2025. Integration Without Expectation The young trio was called into a Springbok training camp in Johannesburg alongside 37 seasoned internationals. This was ahead of the upcoming Rugby Championship clashes against Australia. Their inclusion, however, came at the expense of several high-profile names, including Lukhanyo…

South African motorists are being cautioned that failing to produce a valid driver’s licence during police roadblocks or inspections could cost them a R500 fine. This firm warning comes after the City of Cape Town conducted a recent traffic operation in the Central Business District (CBD). The operation uncovered 164 traffic transgressions with 54 of those involving drivers unable to present their licence. According to city authorities, drivers must always carry their physical driving licence with them while on the road. Neither a digital image nor a photocopy of the licence will be accepted as proof. The City’s Mayoral Committee…

As Lucas Ribeiro Costa swept the 2024/25 PSL Awards with an emphatic four-title haul, including the prestigious Footballer of the Season crown, attention has turned to the elite company he now joins. Over the past decade, some of the country’s finest talents have laid their claim to the top individual honour in our domestic game, each leaving a distinct mark on the Premier Soccer League. Here’s a look at the past ten players who have been named PSL Footballer of the Season, showcasing a golden era of South African football brilliance. 2024/25: Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Mamelodi Sundowns) A complete attacking…

Orlando Pirates have officially ushered in a new chapter of leadership by confirming Nkosinathi Sibisi as the club’s new captain for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign. The announcement ends speculation following the departure of former skipper Innocent Maela. Maela had led the team since 2022 before hanging up his boots at the end of last season. Maela’s exit not only leaves a legacy of commitment and composure but also a void. The club has now filled it with another dependable figure at the back. Sibisi, a defender known for his consistency, discipline and leadership qualities, was the players’ clear favourite. The…

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has called for composure and a level-headed approach as the club prepares for a challenging start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership. Although he isn’t boldly declaring a title charge, the Tunisian tactician has made it known that the team intends to be competitive across all competitions. After ending a decade-long wait for silverware by clinching the Nedbank Cup last season, expectations are high at Naturena. The Glamour Boys haven’t lifted the league title since Stuart Baxter’s reign in the 2014/15 campaign. Since then, the club has endured a frustrating mix of near-successes and disappointing finishes.…

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has brushed off concerns that his squad may be underprepared heading into the Rugby Championship. Despite facing comparatively lighter opposition in the lead-up, Erasmus is confident. With back-to-back tests against Australia on 16 and 23 August in Johannesburg and Cape Town, respectively, Erasmus believes the Springboks are ready. They will match the Wallabies both physically and tactically. Speaking at the team’s Johannesburg training base, Rassie Erasmus addressed the extended training camp. The camp now lasts two weeks. He revealed that the decision came after coaches raised concerns that players weren’t receiving enough concentrated preparation in…