The PSL isn’t famous for hit marksmen but in the last 24 years fans have been treated to some amazing talents. Our soccer editor takes a look at the top 5 best strikers in the PSL since the year 1999.
Benni McCarthy
Now working as one of the assistants to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, Benni McCarthy lit the local league up with his performances for Ajax Cape Town before moving to Europe where he had a successful career with clubs like FC Porto and Blackburn Rovers. Between 2011-2013 McCarthy moved back to South Africa where he had a successful stint with Orlando Pirates before moving into coaching.
🇿🇦Benni McCarthy’s fabulous brace for Porto vs Man United in the UCL last 16 in 2004. What a player this guy was 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ijyO7KpsMD
— Football SA (@SAFootClassics) March 8, 2023
Siyabonga Nomvethe
Known for his agility and goal-scoring prowess, Nomvethe had an illustrious career in the Premier Soccer League, playing for clubs like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Moroka Swallows. He was known for his consistency and ability to score crucial goals, which earned him a contract in Europe with clubs such as Udinese and Aalborg BK. In recent years, Nomvethe took up his first coaching role at AmaZulu as an assistant to Benni McCarthy and together they helped the club qualify for the CAF Champions League for the first time in its history.
Cheeky Penalty by Siyabonga Eugene Nomvethe against Manchester City.. pic.twitter.com/KFaJLPn2UU
— IbholalaseMzansi (@Cafulele1) June 3, 2020
Katlego ‘Killer’ Mphela
Mphela made a name for himself as one of the top strikers in the PSL during his time with Mamelodi Sundowns. In the 2009/10 season he won the Lesly Manyathela Golden Boot after scoring 17 goals in 30 games and was voted the PSL Player’s Player of the Season. He was known for his powerful shots and clinical finishing, also displayed on free-kicks. Mphela also represented Bafana Bafana with distinction.
Collins Mbesuma
The Zambian striker had a memorable stint in the PSL, notably with Kaizer Chiefs and Mpumalanga Black Aces. Mbesuma was known for his physicality, aerial ability, and knack for finding the back of the net. During the 2004/05 season, Mbesuma netted 25 goals, breaking the previous goalscoring record held by Wilfred Mugeyi for Bush Bucks in the 1996/97 campaign. That record has remained intact for 19 years.
Knowledge Musona
Musona emerged as one of the brightest talents in the PSL during his time with Kaizer Chiefs. His speed, skill, and eye for goal made him a fan favorite. Musona later moved to Europe but left a lasting impression during his time in South Africa and many have argued Amakhosi have failed to find a prolific striker with his acumen in front of goal.
