Relebohile Mofokeng capped off a remarkable 2025/26 campaign by emerging as the biggest winner at the Premier Soccer League (PSL) Awards, walking away with three of the evening’s most prestigious accolades, including the coveted Footballer of the Season award.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder also claimed the Players’ Player of the Season and Midfielder of the Season awards, cementing his status as the country’s outstanding footballer after spearheading Orlando Pirates to their first Betway Premiership title in 16 years.
His dominance at the awards ceremony was the perfect conclusion to a campaign that has transformed him from one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects into one of the continent’s most sought-after talents.
“It is an honour to win this season. I mean this is considered as best player. I’m very honoured and thank you to everyone, every coach, every player who helped me through this journey. This will motivate me. I really appreciate it. I will never disappoint anyone. This will motivate me going forward, thank you very much,” Mofokeng said in a recorded video clip after winning the best footballer of the season on Monday night.
“Thank you everyone who voted for me for the young player of the season. To the young players, I hope this will keep motivating you and keep on pushing and we need more young players to receive these awards. Thank you very much,” Mofokeng added in another recorded video clip.
A Season to Remember
Mofokeng’s influence on Orlando Pirates’ title-winning campaign was immense. Blessed with exceptional dribbling ability, composure in possession and an eye for goal, he consistently delivered in the biggest moments of the season.
In the Betway Premiership, the Bafana Bafana international produced 10 goals and eight assists in 27 league appearances, directly contributing to 18 goals as Pirates edged defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns to the league crown.
He also maintained an impressive average performance rating throughout the campaign, underlining his consistency from the opening match to the final whistle of the season.
Beyond the numbers, Mofokeng became the creative heartbeat of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side, dazzling supporters with fearless attacking play, intelligent movement and the maturity of a player far older than his age.
MTN8 Success Continues
Mofokeng’s brilliance was not limited to league football.
He played a significant role in helping Orlando Pirates continue their dominance in the MTN8, adding yet another trophy to an already glittering campaign. The Buccaneers successfully defended the prestigious Top Eight title, reinforcing their reputation as South Africa’s premier cup specialists.
His performances in knockout football once again highlighted his ability to rise to the occasion, with his creativity and attacking flair proving decisive in crucial matches throughout the competition.
Impressing on the World’s Biggest Stage
Mofokeng’s extraordinary domestic form earned him a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The youngster embraced football’s grandest stage with confidence, showcasing his technical quality against elite international opposition. Although South Africa’s campaign came to an end before the latter stages, Mofokeng emerged with his reputation significantly enhanced.
His fearless performances demonstrated that he possesses not only the talent but also the temperament required to compete at the highest level of world football.
Belgian Dream Becomes Reality
Following a few months of speculation linking him with clubs across Europe, Mofokeng has now completed his move to Belgian Pro League champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Belgium has increasingly become a stepping stone for African stars aiming to establish themselves in Europe’s top leagues, and many believe the technically gifted South African has all the attributes to thrive there.
The move offers Mofokeng the opportunity to compete in European competitions, further develop his game and potentially attract interest from clubs in England, Spain, Germany or Italy in the coming years.
A New Face of South African Football
Winning the PSL’s highest individual honour places Mofokeng alongside some of South African football’s greatest names, including Percy Tau, Thembinkosi Lorch, Khama Billiat and Teko Modise.
What makes his achievement even more remarkable is that he accomplished it at just 21 years of age. Former teammates and coaches have repeatedly praised his humility, work ethic and willingness to learn, qualities many believe will help him succeed in Europe.
For Orlando Pirates supporters, Mofokeng leaves behind memories of breathtaking goals, magical assists and performances that inspired the club back to the summit of South African football.
For Bafana Bafana, he represents the future. For South African football, he has become the latest symbol of hope that the country can once again produce players capable of excelling on the global stage.
Judging by the unforgettable 2025/26 season, Mofokeng’s remarkable journey is only just beginning.
All Award Winners:
PSL Footballer of the Season: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Players’ Player of the Season: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Coach of the Season: Abdeslam Ouaddou (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season: Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Defender of the Season: Lebone Seema (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Midfielder of the Season: Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates)
Betway Premiership Young Player of the Season: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
MTN8 Last Man Standing: Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates)
Carling Knockout Player of the Tournament: Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates)
Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament: Darren Keet (Durban City)
Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Tournament: Seluleko Mahlambi (TS Galaxy)
Motsepe Foundation Championship Players’ Player of the Season: Emile Witbooi (Cape Town City)
Motsepe Foundation Championship Young Player of the Season: Gabriel Amato (Cape Town City)
Motsepe Foundation Championship Goalkeeper of the Season: Mickey Van Der Hart (Cape Town City)
DStv Diski Challenge Player of the Season: Bennet Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
PSL Referee Of The Year: Eugene Mdluli
PSL Assistant Referee of the Season: Nandipha Menze
