PSL Development Under Spotlight as Siyabonga Nomvete Praises Bafana’s World Cup Progress

Former Bafana Bafana striker Siyabonga Nomvete has hailed the Premier Soccer League (PSL) following South Africa’s historic achievement at the FIFA World Cup, where the national team reached the knockout stages for the first time in four attempts.

Bafana Bafana bowed out after a narrow 1-0 defeat to co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles just over a week ago, with the match seemingly destined for extra time before a late goal sealed the hosts’ victory. 

Despite the heartbreak and the fact that sections of the fanbase directed abuse towards some of the players following the World Cup exit, Nomvete was full of praise for the squad, which was dominated by local talent.

Coach Hugo Broos selected 19 players from the PSL, a decision that caught the attention of Nomvete, who himself starred for the likes of African Wanderers, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Moroka Swallows and AmaZulu during his illustrious career. 

“The number of local players in the national team demonstrated once more that there is talent in the Premier Soccer League. It is not even about the players that were picked by Coach Hugo Broos; there were still debates about players left behind who are playing in our league,” Nomvete told SportsBoom.co.za in an exclusive interview. 

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates players formed the backbone of the squad after strong campaigns in both the CAF Champions League and the Betway Premiership. Yet Nomvete stressed that several other deserving players were unfortunate to miss out on the trip to the USA.

In the clash against Canada, seven PSL players started the game, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. 

“The local players showed that they can compete with the best in the world. The chemistry in the team was also good, between both local and overseas-based players. We should credit club bosses who continue to give opportunities to young players in what is one of the best leagues in the world,” Nomvete added.

The veteran striker, who played in Italy’s Serie A for the likes of Udinese and Empoli and won the Danish Superliga with Aarlborg in 2007, singled out Mbekezeli Mbokazi as one of the standout performers. Mbokazi, who hails from rural KwaZulu-Natal, like ‘Bhele’, rose through the ranks via the Diski Challenge before breaking into the PSL. 

“The Reserve League has without a doubt made a lot of difference for players to adapt before playing Premier League football, and Mbokazi is an example of how good a Reserve League can help football development." 

Expressing pride in Mbokazi’s journey, Nomvete predicted a bright future for the young star. 

“I am very proud of Mbokazi. He showcased his God-given talent to the world. I hope the biggest teams in Europe come knocking. He can play for the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, or even Manchester United. He looks very focused and settled well in Chicago, and we are delighted to have a player of his calibre in the national team.”

Nomvete emphasized that playing in the World Cup remains the ultimate dream for PSL players. 

“I was in Mexico City cheering Bafana Bafana from the stands for the opening game, and nothing compares to playing in the World Cup. It is the reason we play football. I have no doubt that all players in the 16 PSL teams harbour the dream of representing their country at the World Cup. This will raise the standard of the league going into next season as players fight for places in the squad heading to AFCON 2027 and the next World Cup in 2030.”

Nomvete still takes pride on the goal that gave Bafana Bafana first World Cup win

The former striker, affectionately known as “Bhele,” also reflected on his own World Cup memories. 

Earlier this month, he featured in a Bafana Bafana legends match against Mexico in Pachuca, where he was reminded of his famous goal at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea. 

Nomvete scored the winner in a 1-0 victory over Slovenia, securing South Africa’s first-ever World Cup win.

“It was a great feeling scoring in the World Cup. Scoring a goal is always special, but the feeling of scoring at the World Cup cannot be compared to anything. That goal opened doors for me. Even today, people still stop me in the streets to talk about it. Some even ask me to go back and play, but now it is about the current generation. I was delighted that we were able to proceed to the next round this year, scoring a couple of goals and delivering an overall good performance," he concluded.