Top player profiles - Premier Soccer Fixtures

Peter Shalulile

(Mamelodi Sundowns)

Shalulile,the Namibian Express, has been one of the pacesetters in the league since his days at Highlands Park FC. The 28 year old is one of those players who defy any counteraction set up for him and preys on the insecurities of defenders – a rare trait in the domestic game. Last season the Mamelodi Sundowns man came closest to breaking Collins Mbesuma’s haul of 25 league strikes in a single campaign, finishing with 23 DStv Premiership goals and a total of 30 in all competitions. If we have seen anything in Shalulile’s game over the last five years it’s his desire to exceed his previous achievements and he will no doubt spearhead the Brazilians’ charge towards a seventh consecutive league title. His relentless running, instinctive movement along with an aggressive attitude towards finding the back of the net at all costs make him the key man once again in an often star-stuffed side.

Veli Mothwa

(AmaZulu)

Mothwa’s rise amongst the country’s best shot-stoppers has coincided with his club’s goal of scoring greater achievements which is set to continue into the upcoming campaign. The 31 year old’s consistency at both club and country levels has made him one of the first players on the AmaZulu team sheet for coaches Benni McCarthy and Brandon Truter. He featured in 27 of 30 DStv Premiership matches last season, missing out only when he was injured. The Bafana international’s ability to command his box, play out from the back and make saves at point blank range has proven beneficial for Usuthu during his time there and the 2022/2023 season will demand his consistency and domineering personality to shine through as his club seeks silverware.

Keagan Dolly

(Kaizer Chiefs)

Keagan Dolly, who is set to begin his second season in the colours of Amakhosi, will have had the advantage of enjoying a full pre-season with the club unlike last year when he had to work through his issues with weight at the beginning of competitive action. The Westbury-born man is one of the best players in the league even at a 50% fitness level and he showed this last season, quickly emerging as the top player at Chiefs soon after his arrival at the club.. Dolly’s ability to excel in big games has matured and blossomed into something special over the years with his brace against cross-town rivals Orlando Pirates last season solidifying his pedigree among the Glamour Boys faithful

His line-up with Khama Billiat and new man Ashley Du Preez promises some exciting times for fans this season.

Thembinkosi Lorch

(Orlando Pirates)

Thembinkosi Lorch is undoubtedly one of the best players of this generation and he has proven this over a number of years for his club Orlando Pirates. The 29 year old will look to put away the woes of last season as quickly as possible after an injury interrupted campaign ruled him out for the better part of the first round. However, his return to the team was fast-tracked and he displayed his exceptional ability leading the charge for continental club glory. The former SA Footballer of the Season award recipient featured in 15 league matches last campaign, managing a single goal involvement over two matches as well as six assists along with a goal.

Lorch will have a full pre-season with new coach Jose Riveiro and will look to impress him and carry the Buccaneers to silverware as he has done in the past.

Mduduzi Mdantsane

(Cape Town City)

Cape Town City are expected to have their most challenging season to date following their impressive qualification for this year’s CAF Champions League and will need their best players to fire from the first game of the new season... and Mduduzi Mdantsane is one of those the club will look to for some magic. The former Baroka man’s evolution from a central defensive midfield role into one of the most prolific scorers in the league has been beautiful to witness. He has managed nine goals in each of the last two seasons with the Cityzens, a trend he will look to continue and expand on as the season unfolds. The 27 year old possesses soccer skills that are rare on South African shores these days including the ability to operate in tight areas and also put himself in great positions to consistently find the back of the net – along the lines of what is seen from Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino or Manchester City’s Phil Foden.