Teams built on unyielding defence often find the sweetest victories, proving that the fewest goals conceded translate into the most valuable points.
South African football has been graced by a remarkable blend of emerging young stars and battle-hardened veterans, each rising to the occasion this past season.
Together, they’ve formed the backbone of their teams, standing resolute as the last line of defence.
After a season fraught with fierce battles and narrow margins, we turn our attention to five defenders whose performances have shone brightest to have earned their place in the conversation for the Premier Soccer League Defender of the Year…
Nkosinathi Sibisi – Orlando Pirates
The Orlando Pirates defender stood as a steadfast pillar in the Buccaneers’ backline, playing a crucial role in what became one of their most successful league campaigns, even if the results didn’t always reflect their efforts.
With regular captain Innocent Maela struggling for minutes, Sibisi frequently rose to the challenge, stepping into a leadership role.
This season was one to remember for him – a breakthrough that boosted his confidence significantly, especially considering he had not been a regular fixture in the Pirates set-up before this campaign.
Khuliso Mudau – Mamelodi Sundowns
The 30-year-old right back delivered another exceptional season, rarely making a misstep throughout the entire campaign.
His return from the sidelines, after being overlooked early in the season, seemed seamless, as he picked up exactly where he left off last year.
Contributing three assists and a goal, Mudau was instrumental in helping his side both score the most goals and concede the fewest in the league, tirelessly patrolling the right flank with unmatched determination.
Grant Kekana – Mamelodi Sundowns
The centre-back has been the epitome of consistency across the whole league.
His partnership and leadership at the heart of the defence for the Brazilians have been vital, acting as the glue holding together a backline frequently reshaped throughout the campaign.
Kekana has remained unwaveringly solid in breaking down opposition attacks, with his greatest achievement being the remarkable steadiness he has maintained all season long.
Deano van Rooyen – Orlando Pirates
Van Rooyen ranks among the finest defenders in his position, and likely matches his counterpart Mudau in both defensive discipline and attacking prowess.
Since transferring from Stellenbosch FC, he has become a regular presence for the Buccaneers, and with youth still on his side, his quality hints at many more seasons ahead wearing the black and white.
His attacking contributions perfectly complement his defensive duties, both of which he has carried out admirably throughout the campaign, making him a strong contender for the award.
Fawaaz Basadien – Stellenbosch FC
A key figure in Stellenbosch’s memorable season, which saw them qualify for the CAF Confederations Cup for the second consecutive year with a solid third-place finish, Basadien stands out as one of the few seasoned campaigners remaining in the Cape Winelands side.
After another impressive season that earned him the club’s Footballer of the Year honour, his leadership and quality on the field have elevated him to a special class.
