South Africa is a nation with a rich history of soccer. For generations, the country has produced some of the world’s best soccer players. From legendary strikers to brilliant midfielders, South African players have starred in both domestic and international competitions.
Here, we look at some of the best players ever to pull on the iconic South African national team jersey. These players have made their mark on the game, winning awards, setting records and inspiring generations of younger players.
1. Benni McCarthy
Benedict Saul McCarthy is a well-known figure in South African football. He has had a long and successful career both as a player and a coach. McCarthy is currently working as a first-team coach at Manchester United, one of the world’s most prestigious clubs.
Before this, he was the head coach of South African Premier Division team AmaZulu.As a player, McCarthy was a forward and the South Africa national team’s all-time top scorer with 31 goals.
This is an impressive feat and shows the level of talent and skill he possessed as a player.
He is highly respected in the South African football community and his achievements will be remembered for years to come.McCarthy’s career as a coach has been just as successful as his career as a player.
He has worked with world-class teams such as Manchester United and is highly respected for his knowledge and experience.
His work with AmaZulu was also successful and he helped the team reach the top division of South African football.McCarthy is an inspiration to many and his success story is an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
He is proof that anything is possible and his work will continue to be an inspiration to many.
2. Siyabonga Nomvethe
Siyabonga Eugene Nomvethe is an accomplished South African former professional soccer player who had a successful career in Europe and represented his country at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups. Nomvethe played as a forward and began his professional career in 1999.
He made his debut for the South Africa national team on 6 May 1999 and went on to play in two World Cups. Throughout his career Nomvethe played for several different clubs in various European leagues.
He was a regular starter for many of those teams and was known for his athleticism and skill. He was able to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates with his dribbling and shooting ability.
Nomvethe was also a great team player, often helping out defensively when needed. Nomvethe was a standout player for South Africa and was part of the squad that represented the country in the 2002 and 2010 World Cups.
He was able to make an impact in both tournaments and was one of the most reliable players for his team.
His presence and experience helped South Africa to perform above expectations at both tournaments. Nomvethe retired from professional soccer in 2018 after a successful career that spanned nearly two decades.
His contributions to South African soccer and to the game of soccer as a whole will not soon be forgotten. His legacy will live on for many years to come.
3. Siphiwe Tshabalala
Lawrence Siphiwe Dambuza Tshabalala is a renowned South African football player who has made a name for himself in the football world. He is currently playing as a midfielder for AmaZulu, but his career spans much further.
Tshabalala has won many awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Footballer of the Year award in 2008, which speaks volumes of his talent and ability.
He is also highly respected by his peers and is often considered to be one of the most talented South African footballers of his generation. Tshabalala has been playing professional football since 2002, when he first joined the now-defunct team, Free State Stars.
He then went on to join Mamelodi Sundowns, where he became hugely popular and successful, winning many trophies with the team.
He eventually left Sundowns in 2015 and joined AmaZulu, where he has played ever since. Throughout his career, Tshabalala has been known for his attacking style of play and his ability to create chances for his team.
He is also an incredibly talented dribbler and has a keen eye for goals, both of which have helped him to achieve success throughout his career. In addition to his footballing abilities, Tshabalala is also a committed philanthropist who is passionate about giving back to the community.
He is heavily involved in charity work and regularly donates to causes that support disadvantaged children in South Africa. Tshabalala’s success and influence in the world of football have earned him the respect of many.
He is a role model to many young South African players who aspire to emulate his achievements. Tshabalala is certainly one of the most celebrated South African footballers of his generation, and his legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.
4. Aaron Mokoena
Aaron Mokoena is a South African former footballer who has made a name for himself in the world of football. He is a well-known figure in the South African football scene. Born in 1980, Mokoena began his professional career in 1998 with the South African club, Ajax Cape Town.
He went on to play for several other clubs in South Africa and Europe, including Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League and Portsmouth in the Championship. He also made 81 international appearances for South Africa, becoming the most-capped player in the country’s history.
After retiring from professional football in 2014, Mokoena has gone on to become an assistant coach for Cape Town City. He has been in this role since 2016 and has been able to use his knowledge and experience to help the team grow and develop.
Mokoena has also been involved in several programs to help develop the game in South Africa. He has been an ambassador for the South African Football Association and has spoken at numerous events to promote the game in the country.
Overall, Aaron Mokoena has had a long and successful career in football. From his time as a professional player to his current role as assistant coach of Cape Town City, he has consistently demonstrated his dedication and passion for the game.
He is an excellent example of how football can open up opportunities and help shape a successful career.
5. Katlego Mphela
Katlego Abel Mphela is a former South African footballer who had an illustrious career in the sport. He was born in 1985 in Soweto, South Africa and started his football career at the age of 15 in the youth team of local side, Jomo Cosmos.
He rose to prominence after signing for the South African Giant, Kaizer Chiefs in 2004, where he made an immediate impact, scoring 26 goals in his first season, and winning the Player of the Season award.
Mphela’s success at club level earned him a call-up to the South Africa national team where he soon became a regular starter and scored his first international goal in a friendly match against Jamaica in 2009.
He went on to become the country’s all-time leading scorer with 31 goals in 77 matches.
In 2011, he was part of the South African team that reached the quarterfinals of the African Cup of Nations, where they lost to eventual winners, Zambia. Mphela made a name for himself in Europe after joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2012.
Throughout his career, he played for several clubs in the South African Premier Soccer League, as well as in the Netherlands and Italy.
In 2018, Mphela announced his retirement from professional football, bringing to an end a remarkable career that saw him win multiple awards and become one of the most prolific goalscorers in South Africa’s history.
6. Sibusiso Zuma
Sibusiso Wiseman Zuma is a former South African professional footballer who had a distinguished career playing as a forward or midfielder. Zuma was born in Durban, South Africa and began his football career at the age of 16 when he joined the Durban United youth academy.
He then went on to play professionally for teams in South Africa, Thailand, and the United States. Zuma was known for his speed, agility, and technique on the field. He was a powerful player with the ability to dribble past defenders and create chances for his teammates.
He was also a hard-working player who was always looking to get the ball and take it forward.
Zuma was a prolific scorer, netting multiple goals in some seasons and winning awards for his performances. Off the field, Zuma was known for his generosity and kind-heartedness, often going out of his way to help those in need.
He was a role model for aspiring young footballers and was often seen giving advice and offering guidance to his fellow players. Overall, Sibusiso Wiseman Zuma was a great footballer and an even better person.
His success and legacy will continue to inspire generations of footballers and people alike.
7. Shaun Bartlett
Shaun Bartlett is a South African football manager and former player. He is currently the manager of Cape Town Spurs, a South African football club. Bartlett was a striker during his playing career and was well known for his attacking style of play.
He scored an impressive number of goals throughout his career and was a very successful player. He was also a very consistent and reliable player, known for his hard work and dedication.
After his playing career, Bartlett took up the role of a manager and has had great success as a coach. He has managed several teams and has won numerous titles.
Bartlett is considered an excellent manager, one who knows how to get the best out of his players and bring out the best in them. He is a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success both on and off the field.
8. Delron Buckley
Delron Sebastian Buckley is a prominent figure in South African soccer. He enjoyed a successful career as a professional footballer, playing primarily as a left winger but also occasionally as a striker.
He was known for his speed and agility on the pitch, and his ability to score goals. In September 2021, Delron was appointed Head Coach of the University of KwaZulu-Natal soccer team.
As the Head Coach of the team, he is responsible for leading the team to success, developing players, and ensuring that the team performs at its highest level.
He also works with the team’s support staff to create a positive environment that will help the players achieve their goals. Delron’s experience as a professional footballer has given him the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective coach.
He understands the game from both a tactical and strategic point of view and knows how to get the best out of his players.
He also has the ability to motivate the team and make sure they are working hard to achieve their objectives. Delron’s appointment to the University of KwaZulu-Natal soccer team is a testament to his knowledge and experience in the world of soccer.
He is committed to helping the team reach their true potential and will use his years of playing experience to help them reach their goals. With his leadership and guidance, the team can look forward to a bright future.
9. John Moshoeu
John Lesiba Moshoeu, famously known as “Shoes”, was a prominent South African football player. He was born in the Limpopo province of Ga Mashashane, and raised in the Soweto township of Diepkloof.
Shoes made a significant contribution to South African football, most notably as a member of the national team that won the 1996 African Cup of Nations.
During his playing career, he starred as an attacking midfielder. Shoes was a beloved figure in the South African football community and was well-respected for his skill and dedication to the game.
He was a major influence in the success of the South African national team and was instrumental in their victory at the African Cup of Nations. Shoes was also a role model for young, aspiring footballers in South Africa, and his legacy lives on in the footballing community.
His hard work and determination are an inspiration to many.
10. Hugo Broos
Hugo Henri Broos is a renowned Belgian football manager and former player. He is widely respected for his successful coaching career. During his playing career, he was part of the Belgian national team and played for several clubs, including Lommel, KV Mechelen, and Club Brugge.
After retiring from football, Broos focused on coaching. He has managed several clubs in Belgium and abroad, including KV Mechelen, KAA Gent, and Al Ahly. He also managed the Cameroon national team and guided them to the 2017 African Cup of Nations title.
Most recently, Broos was appointed as the manager of the South Africa national soccer team. He has been tasked with leading the team to success in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations.
He is keen to build on the successes of his predecessors and is confident that his team can achieve great things. Overall, Hugo Henri Broos is a highly respected football manager and former player.
His experience and successes in both playing and coaching make him a great choice to lead the South African national soccer team.
11. Tokelo Rantie
Tokelo Anthony Rantie is a South African soccer player that has been playing professionally for many years. He currently plays for the South Africa national team as a striker.
Rantie started his professional soccer career in 2006, playing for the South African Premier Soccer League team, FC Cape Town. Since then, he has gone on to play for a variety of teams in South Africa, as well as teams from abroad.
He has also played for the South African U-23 team and the South African National Team since 2013. Rantie is highly regarded in the soccer world due to his skill and experience.
He is known for his ability to score goals as a striker, as well as his passing and defensive capabilities. As a result of his talent, Rantie has become a regular in the South African National Team lineup, helping them to win several games.
He has also been called up to the national team for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he will have the opportunity to show the world what he is capable of. Rantie is a great example of the talent and skill that South African soccer has to offer.
His accomplishments both on and off the pitch demonstrate his dedication to the game, and he is sure to be an asset for the South African National Team for years to come.
12. Themba Zwane
Themba Zwane is widely regarded as one of the greatest South African soccer players of his generation. He is a professional player who currently plays for both Premier Soccer League club Mamelodi Sundowns and the South Africa national team.
Zwane plays as an attacking midfielder, a position in which he has excelled and become one of the most highly regarded players in the Premier Soccer League.
He has been praised for his technical ability, creative vision, and passing accuracy. Zwane has been a major force in the South African soccer scene since he first started playing, winning numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
He has been named the South African Footballer of the Year twice and was named African Footballer of the Year in 2020.
He has also been included in the CAF Team of the Year three times and was part of the South African side that won the 2018 COSAFA Cup. Zwane is an inspiration for many aspiring young South African soccer players.
He has shown that it is possible for South Africans to compete at the highest levels of the game, and his success has been a major boost for the country’s soccer scene.
With his impressive skill set, Zwane has been able to make the most of the opportunities he has been given and has proven that South African soccer players are capable of achieving great things.
13. Ronwen Williams
Ronwen Hayden Williams is an accomplished South African professional soccer player. He currently plays as a goalkeeper for Mamelodi Sundowns, a club in the Premier Soccer League. In addition to his club career, he is also the captain of the South Africa national team.
His playing career has seen him excel at the highest level both domestically and internationally, and his leadership and skill have been integral to South Africa’s success.
He has been credited with leading his team to two CAF Champions League titles and two Premier Soccer League titles.
His individual accolades include two Player of the Year awards and four Goalkeeper of the Year awards, as well as selection to the CAF Champions League Team of the Year and the Premier Soccer League Team of the Year.
Williams is seen as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation and is respected and admired by his teammates and opponents alike. His leadership, skill, and determination have made him a role model for aspiring soccer players around the world.
14. Itumeleng Khune
Itumeleng Issac Khune is a renowned South African soccer player who plays in the Premier Soccer League as a goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs. He is an integral member of the team and has been named captain of both the Premier Soccer League team and the South African national team.
His accomplishments have earned him the respect of both his teammates and fans, and he is considered a role model for aspiring soccer players. Khune has had a successful career in soccer, both domestically and internationally.
He was a member of the South African U20 team that won the African Youth Championship in 2007, and he has made multiple appearances for the South African national team.
He has been the starting goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs since 2007 and has helped the team win multiple trophies, including four league titles and the 2019 Nedbank Cup.
Khune has also been named the Premier Soccer League’s Goalkeeper of the Season four times and has been named South African Footballer of the Year twice. Khune’s leadership skills have been praised by many, and his influence on his teammates has been significant.
He is a vocal presence on the field, and his direction and instruction have been invaluable for the team. He has been praised for his ability to motivate his teammates and bring out the best in them.
In addition, his commitment to his team has been remarkable and he has often put himself in danger for the sake of his team’s success. Itumeleng Issac Khune is a highly respected soccer player in South Africa, and his influence as captain of both the Premier Soccer League and the South African national team has been invaluable.
He has had a long and successful career and has been an integral part of the success of both Kaizer Chiefs and the South African national team. He is an inspiration to aspiring soccer players and a role model for many.
15. Percy Tau
Percy Muzi Tau is a South African professional footballer who is currently playing for the Egyptian Premier League club Al Ahly and the South African national team. His career began with Mamelodi Sundowns, a Premier Soccer League side based in South Africa.
During his time there, he made a total of 100 appearances for the team.
During his time at Mamelodi Sundowns, he was loaned out to Witbank Spurs, another PSL side, which allowed him to gain more experience and develop his skills.Tau has since returned to Mamelodi Sundowns after his loan period ended and has since gone on to join Al Ahly in the Egyptian Premier League.
Tau’s move to Al Ahly has been a great success, as he has become an integral part of the team.
He has also been called up to represent the South African national team, where he has been able to demonstrate his skills on the international stage. Overall, Percy Muzi Tau has had a very successful footballing career so far.
He has been able to develop his game at both Mamelodi Sundowns and Witbank Spurs, before making the move to Al Ahly, where he has been able to showcase his talents and gain international recognition.
16. Aubrey Modiba
Aubrey “Postman” Modiba is a renowned South African professional soccer player who currently plays for Mamelodi Sundowns in the Premier Soccer League. His main position is left-midfielder, but he is also capable of playing as a left-back.
Modiba has had the honor of representing his country at the international level, and has featured for the South Africa national under-20 team. He is currently part of the full senior national team squad and is expected to make an impact for the team in upcoming fixtures.
Modiba is a highly talented player, and his commitment to the game and his country is admirable.
17. Zakhele Lepasa
Zakhele Lerato Lepasa is a highly accomplished South African soccer player. He currently plays for the Orlando Pirates in the South African Premier Division and is also a member of the South African national soccer team.
His position on the field is center forward, a key role in any team’s offensive game plan. Lepasa has been playing soccer since a young age and has been consistently impressive in his career.
His ability to score goals has been a major asset for his teams, as well as his skill in creating chances for his teammates.
He has been a crucial part of the Orlando Pirates’ success in recent years and is almost always one of the first names on the team sheet. As well as his club commitments, Lepasa has also been a key contributor to the South African national soccer team.
He has featured in a number of important international fixtures, including African Cup of Nations qualifiers and friendlies.
His experience and leadership have been invaluable in helping the team to achieve success. Overall, Zakhele Lerato Lepasa is a hugely talented player who is admired by fans and respected by his peers.
He has established himself as one of the best soccer players in South Africa and looks likely to remain at the top of the game for many years to come.
18. Lucas Radebe
Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Radebe OIS is a former professional soccer player from South Africa. He was most notably known for his time with Kaizer Chiefs, a South African club, and Leeds United, an English club.
Radebe began his professional career with Kaizer Chiefs, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a key player for the club. In 1994, he was signed by Leeds United, a top-flight English side.
He was an immediate success with the Yorkshire side, becoming a mainstay in the team’s defense. He went on to make 262 appearances for Leeds United during his nine-year stint with the club, cementing his legacy as one of the best defenders ever to play for the club.
Radebe was inducted into Leeds United’s Hall of Fame in 2012 and was also awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (OIS) by the South African government for his services to football.
19. Lyle Foster
Lyle Brent Foster is a professional footballer from South Africa. He currently plays as a forward for the English Premier League club Burnley, as well as for his home nation’s national team.
Foster is a highly talented and experienced footballer, having spent time playing in the top tiers of African football before joining the English side. He is known for his pace and agility on the pitch, as well as his ability to hold up play and create chances for his teammates.
Foster is a key player for both Burnley and South Africa, with his presence making a huge difference to both sides. He is a highly respected player and his passion for the game is clear to see whenever he steps onto the pitch.
20. Steven Pienaar
Steven Jerome Pienaar is a South African football legend.
He had an illustrious career as a professional footballer and is now the assistant coach of the U18 team of the Ajax Youth Academy. Throughout his playing career, Pienaar was a reliable attacking force, possessing exceptional dribbling ability and an eye for goal.
He was a winger by trade but was also comfortable playing as an attacking midfielder. He was a key member of the South African national team and was even given the honour of captaining the side. Pienaar’s career saw him play in some of the top leagues in Europe.
He began his career with Ajax in the Dutch Eredivisie, before moving on to the English Premier League where he had spells with both Everton and Tottenham.
He later moved to La Liga, playing for both Sevilla and Betis, before returning to South Africa in 2018 to finish his playing career. In total, Pienaar made over 500 appearances as a professional footballer, and he is now looking to pass on his experience to the next generation of footballers.
As the assistant coach of the U18 team of the Ajax Youth Academy, Pienaar is in a prime position to influence the future of South African football.
21. Bongani Zungu
Bongani Zungu is a well-known South African professional soccer player. He currently plays as a midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns, a South African Premier Soccer League club, and for the South Africa national team.
He is renowned for his remarkable passing and dribbling ability, as well as his excellent defensive work rate. Zungu has been a regular in the South African national team since 2016, having made several appearances for the team in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
He was also part of the squad that won the 2019 African Cup of Nations. Zungu has won several honors with Mamelodi Sundowns, including two Premier Soccer League titles, two Nedbank Cup titles, and two Telkom Knockout titles.
His performance with the club has earned him immense admiration from his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He is a highly respected figure in South African football and is seen as an example for the younger generations of players.
22. Mihlali Mayambela
Mihlali Samson Mayambela, better known as “Mabhuti”, is a professional footballer from South Africa. He currently plays as a midfielder for the Cypriot club Aris Limassol.
Mayambela started his career in South Africa, playing for a variety of teams including Orlando Pirates, Golden Arrows, and Chippa United. He made a name for himself as an attacking midfielder, using his skill and creativity to score goals and provide assists.
His impressive performances earned him a move to Europe, where he signed with the Cypriot club Aris Limassol. Since joining the team, Mayambela has been a regular starter and has shown his quality as a midfielder.
His ability to control the ball, provide key passes, and create chances for his team-mates have been instrumental in the team’s success. He is a key player for Aris Limassol and an important part of the South African national team..
23. Teboho Mokoena
Teboho Mokoena is a talented soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays as a midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns, a team that plays in the Premier Soccer League. He also plays for the South Africa national team.
On January 27th, 2022, Mokoena joined Mamelodi Sundowns during the January transfer window. This transfer window is an opportunity for teams to acquire new players and strengthen their squads.
Mokoena is a great addition to the team and will be a valuable asset for the team in the future. He has already proven himself as a talented player, and his addition to the team will be an exciting one.
With Mokoena’s arrival, Mamelodi Sundowns is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the Premier Soccer League.
24. Bongokuhle Hlongwane
Bongokuhle Hlongwane is a talented soccer player hailing from South Africa. He plays as a forward for the professional Major League Soccer club Minnesota United, in addition to the South African national team.
Hlongwane is highly regarded in the soccer world for his skill and tenacity in getting to the goal. He is known for his speed and agility on the field, as well as his ability to find the back of the net in pressure situations.
His commitment to the sport has made him a valued asset to both his club and national team.
He is an important part of Minnesota United’s success, and his performance for the South African national team has helped them to become a formidable opponent in international competition.
Hlongwane has earned the respect of his peers and fans alike for his commitment to the sport and for his dedication to contributing to the success of his teams.
25. Rushine De Reuck
Rushine De Reuck is an outstanding South African soccer player. He is currently playing for Mamelodi Sundowns in the South African Premier Division and is a member of the South Africa national team.
He is a defender or defensive midfielder, meaning he is responsible for stopping the opposition from scoring, as well as providing a platform for his own team to attack.
He is known for his strong defensive skills, as well as his ability to read the game and anticipate the opponent’s moves. He is a very important player for both his club and country, and has earned many accolades for his performances.
He is an inspiration to many young soccer players in South Africa, and his career is one to be admired.
26. Grant Kekana
Grant Kekana is a professional soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays as a defender for Mamelodi Sundowns, a team in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The PSL is considered to be one of the top leagues in the country.
Kekana has been playing for the Mamelodi Sundowns for many years and has become an integral part of the team. He is known for his defensive prowess, having helped the team reach the finals of the competition several times.
He has also been part of the South African national team, representing his country in various international tournaments. Kekana is an experienced and versatile player, capable of playing multiple positions in defense.
He is an important member of the Mamelodi Sundowns squad and a key figure in the South African national team.
27. Thabo Cele
Thabo Cele is a talented soccer player from South Africa. He is currently playing in the Russian Premier League for Fakel Voronezh. As a midfielder, Cele has the unique ability to control the play of the game, dictating the tempo and direction of the game.
He is adept at using his technical ability and tactical know-how to lead his team to victory. His vision and creativity on the ball are unparalleled, and he often creates opportunities for his teammates with his passes and dribbling skills.
He is also a great defensive player, helping to protect his team’s goal and mark opponents. With his combination of passing, dribbling, and defensive skills, Cele is a valuable asset to his team.
28. Quinton Fortune
Quinton Fortune is a well-known South African professional football coach and former player. He had a long and successful career, having played both as a midfielder and defender. Fortune began his career in Europe, signing for Mallorca and then Atlético Madrid.
However, he ultimately settled in at Manchester United in 1999, spending seven years at the club. During his time there, he won many trophies and made a name for himself as an excellent footballer.
Fortune is now a successful coach and has worked with various clubs and national teams. Despite the success he has achieved as a coach, he will always be remembered for his time at Manchester United, where he made a lasting impression on the club’s fans and staff.
29. Brian Baloyi
Brian Baloyi is a retired South African association football goalkeeper who has had a long and successful career. He began his professional career in 1993 and spent over a decade with Kaizer Chiefs before joining league rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in 2004.
He is widely known by the nickname “Spiderman” due to his impressive agility and reflexes in goal. Baloyi was known for his reflexes and agility, often making spectacular saves from seemingly impossible angles.
He was also praised for his leadership and ability to organize his defense, a vital attribute for any goalkeeper. Baloyi’s impressive career earned him numerous awards and recognition, including being named to the South African Football Association’s Team of the Decade in 2000.
Baloyi was a key player in South African football for many years and an inspiration to aspiring young goalkeepers.
30. Teko Modise
Teko Tsholofelo Modise is a retired South African professional footballer who is best known by his nicknames The General and Techno M. During his playing career, Teko Modise was the captain of the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and played as a midfielder.
He was renowned for his technical ability and tactical awareness on the pitch. After retiring from professional football, Teko Modise continued his involvement in the game by joining the Cape Town City Football Club as a staff member.
He is now involved in the development of South African football and continues to be an inspiration to many aspiring footballers.
31. Tebogo Tlolane
Tebogo Tlolane is a professional soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays for the Orlando Pirates, a club in the South African Premier Division. Tlolane typically plays as a striker, but he is also capable of playing as a left midfielder.
As a striker, Tlolane is known for his clinical finishing and speed on the ball. His ability to quickly analyze the game and make decisive runs allows him to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates.
As a left midfielder, Tlolane uses his speed and dribbling ability to create space and create chances in the attacking third. He is also adept at passing and linking up with his teammates in the build-up play.
Tlolane has become a key player for the Orlando Pirates, where his attacking prowess and desire to win have made him an integral part of their team.
32. Daine Klate
Daine Klate is a retired South African football midfielder who was born in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. He was a successful player in his prime, and was known for his technical ability, tenacity, and passion for the game.
After retiring from playing, Klate became a football coach for Chippa United, a South African Premier Soccer League club. He is highly regarded for his knowledge and understanding of the game, and is known for his ability to nurture young talent.
Klate has had a successful coaching career and is credited with the development of a number of young South African players.
His passion for the game, and his commitment to helping young players reach their potential, are two of the main reasons why he is held in such high esteem in the South African football community.
33. Bradley Carnell
Bradley Neil Carnell is a former South African footballer who played in the position of defender. During his playing career, he represented a number of clubs, including Ajax Cape Town, SSV Jahn Regensburg and SC Freiburg.
He also represented the South African national team at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Following his retirement from playing football, Carnell has gone into coaching and is currently the head coach of Major League Soccer side St. Louis City.
Carnell brings a wealth of experience to his new role and his appointment was welcomed by St. Louis City as they look to build on their recent success. Carnell has the task of developing the club’s current crop of players and helping them to reach the next level.
He will be looking to implement his own style of play and help the team to progress both domestically and in continental competition.
34. Anele Ngcongca
Calvin Anele Ngcongca was a highly accomplished South African footballer who spent the majority of his professional career as a right-back.
He was born on the 11th of December 1987 in Mpumalanga, South Africa, and began his footballing career at the age of 17, when he signed with Mamelodi Sundowns in 2005.
During his time with Sundowns, Ngcongca made a name for himself, and in 2008, he was signed by Racing Genk of Belgium. Ngcongca had a successful five-year stint with Genk, appearing in over 130 matches and winning a Belgian Cup title in 2011.
He also represented South Africa at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player to do so from his club. In 2014, he signed with Troyes AC of France’s Ligue 2, and then moved to KRC Genk in the Belgian Pro League in 2016.
Ngcongca had another successful run with Genk, appearing in over 60 matches in two seasons.In 2018, Ngcongca was forced to retire due to a persistent knee injury. However, his contributions to South African and international football will surely be remembered for years to come.
His career was one of the most successful and decorated in South African football history, and he is a true legend of the game.
35. Njabulo Blom
Njabulo Blom is a South African soccer player who is currently playing for Major League Soccer (MLS) club St. Louis City SC and the South African national team. Blom is a versatile player, possessing the ability to play both as a central midfielder and a right back.
He has been an important player for St. Louis City SC since joining the club in 2019 and has been an integral part of the South African national team since 2016.
Blom began his career in South Africa, playing for the youth teams of both Supersport United and Mamelodi Sundowns FC. After impressing scouts, he moved to Europe to join Dutch club Willem II, where he made 10 appearances in all competitions.
In 2019, Blom moved back to his home country to join St. Louis City SC, and he has since gone on to make 33 appearances for the club, scoring three goals and assisting four.
Blom has also been an important player for the South African national team, making 25 appearances since his debut in 2016.
He has been involved in many of the biggest matches for the South African side, including the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he featured in all five of their matches.
Overall, Njabulo Blom is a talented and versatile soccer player who has had a successful career both in South Africa and abroad. He has been an important player for both St.
Louis City SC and the South African national team, and his ability to play both as a central midfielder and a right back has been a great asset for both sides.
36. Mothobi Mvala
Mothobi Mvala is a talented soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays as a central defender for Mamelodi Sundowns, one of South Africa’s top professional soccer teams.
Mvala has had a successful career at Mamelodi Sundowns, playing an important role in the team’s defensive game. He has also been called up to represent South Africa in international competitions, highlighting his importance to the national team.
His presence in the team has been beneficial to South Africa’s success, as he has been able to provide strong defensive play and leadership. As a result of his skill and experience, Mvala is highly valued by both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team.
37. Yusuf Maart
Moegamat Yusuf Maart is a professional soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays for Kaizer Chiefs, a club that competes in South Africa’s Premier Division, and the South Africa national soccer team.
Maart is an attacking midfielder, meaning his primary role is to support his team’s offense by making runs into the opposing team’s half of the field and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
He is known for his skillful dribbling, creative passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game. Maart is an integral part of both teams he plays for, and is highly regarded by his coaches and teammates.
He has represented South Africa at the international level, including the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Maart is an experienced soccer player with a bright future ahead of him.
38. Nkosinathi Sibisi
Nkosinathi Sibisi is a professional soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays as a defender for the South African Premier Division side Orlando Pirates.
He is an integral part of the team, playing a key role in their success. Nkosinathi is a highly-skilled player, with a range of defensive abilities that make him an invaluable asset for the team.
He has the ability to read the game and make decisive interventions that can help his team to secure a victory.
He also has great technical ability, being able to control the ball with ease and deliver pinpoint passes to his teammates.Off the field, Nkosinathi has a huge presence in the South African soccer community.
He is a popular figure in the country, with many young players looking up to him as a role model.
He is also a leader in the Orlando Pirates dressing room, a source of motivation for his teammates and a strong advocate for his team. Nkosinathi Sibisi is an important part of South African soccer.
He is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication and is an inspiration to young players across the country. He is a leader on the field and in the dressing room, and has become an integral part of Orlando Pirates.
39. Innocent Maela
Innocent Maela is a South African professional soccer player who has achieved great success in his career. He currently plays as a defender for the Orlando Pirates, the team he captains, and the South African national team.
Maela is a highly respected player in the soccer world, and is known for his incredible defensive skills. He is a leader on the field, and his presence on the pitch is always felt.
His leadership and passion for the game are what make him a valuable asset to both the Orlando Pirates and the South African national team.
Additionally, Maela is a role model for many young soccer players, representing a positive example of what hard work and dedication can accomplish. His success has brought attention to the talent of African athletes, and he is a source of pride to his country.
40. Monnapule Saleng
Monnapule Saleng is an exemplary South African professional soccer player who is currently playing as a winger for Orlando Pirates and the South Africa national team.
He has achieved a number of remarkable feats during his career, including being named as the MTN Last Man Standing and Player’s Player of the Season for the 2023-24 season.
In addition to these honors, he has also been an integral part of the South African national team, helping them to secure several important victories. His dribbling and passing abilities have been lauded by many in the soccer world.
He has also been praised for his exceptional work rate and his ability to play both offensively and defensively. Saleng is a talented and hard-working professional soccer player who is sure to make a lasting impact on the game.
41. Kgaogelo Sekgota
Kgaogelo Rathete Sekgota, commonly known as Kigi, is an accomplished soccer player from South Africa. He currently plays as a winger for Stellenbosch F.C., an association football club based in the Western Cape Province.
Kigi has achieved success in his career, having earned the admiration of both local and international soccer fans. His impressive skills on the pitch have led him to become one of the most prominent soccer players in South Africa.
Kigi has earned several awards and accolades for his soccer performances, including being named in the Official Club Dream Team for the 2019-20 season.
He is also a regular member of the South African National Team, playing a key role in the team’s successes on the international stage. Kigi is committed to his craft, always striving to improve his game and help his team to success.
He is an exemplary player and a positive role model for aspiring soccer players across the country.
42. Matthew Booth
Matthew Paul Booth is a South African former professional footballer who is best known for playing in the centre-back position. Throughout his career, he had the opportunity to play in three different countries, including his home country of South Africa, Russia, and England.
He spent the majority of his career in South Africa, where he established himself as a reliable defender. He then moved to Russia, where he played for six years, becoming an integral part of his team.
After his stint in Russia, he had a brief three-month spell in England before returning to South Africa to finish his career.
43. Moeneeb Josephs
Moeneeb Josephs is an accomplished South African footballer who enjoyed a successful career as a goalkeeper. He began his career in 2000 with SuperSport United, where he made over 100 appearances and won two league titles.
He then moved to Ajax Cape Town in 2006 and gained further success, winning the Nedbank Cup in 2007. In the same year he moved to Orlando Pirates, where he stayed for five years and was part of their African Champions League winning side in 2013.
After leaving the club in 2014, he had brief spells with Chippa United and Highlands Park before retiring in 2018. Throughout his career, Moeneeb Josephs has been renowned for his agility, reflexes and shot stopping ability.
He was an integral part of South Africa’s national team from 2007 to 2015, making over 30 appearances.
He was also part of the team that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. Moeneeb Josephs was recognized for his achievements on the field with multiple awards, including the South African Footballer of the Year in 2008.
He was also inducted into the South African Football Association’s Hall of Fame in 2019. In retirement, Moeneeb Josephs has become a respected coach. He currently works with the South African U17 team and is a frequent commentator for SuperSport.
He is also an ambassador for the charity Streetfootballworld.
44. Hans Vonk
Johannes Adrianus “Hans” Vonk is a former South African professional football goalkeeper of Dutch origin. He had a distinguished career in the sport, playing for several teams in South Africa and the Netherlands.
Vonk’s last team was Ajax Cape Town FC, where he was under contract for two years between 2009 and 2011. During his time at Ajax Cape Town FC, Vonk established himself as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the league.
He was known for his ability to make acrobatic saves and for his commanding presence in the box.
He was also known for his ability to read the game and anticipate plays before they happened. Vonk’s presence between the posts was so strong, that he was named the team captain in the last season of his contract.
He was also the team’s longest serving player at the time. Since retiring, Vonk has gone on to become a respected coach.
He is currently the head coach of the South African Under-23 team and is also involved in the Ajax Academy in Cape Town. Vonk’s legacy in South African football will live on for many years to come.
His leadership and extraordinary talent will be remembered and continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
45. Pierre Issa
Pierre Sanharib Issa is a highly acclaimed South African soccer player. He was born in South Africa and his heritage is of Lebanese descent. During the late 1990s, he was granted a French citizenship, making him a naturalised citizen of the country.
Issa is best known for his successful career as a professional soccer player. He played as a defender and was known for his tactical know-how and defensive prowess. His excellent performances in his playing career earned him a lot of recognition and respect.
Currently, he is the sporting director of the Greek side Olympiacos. He is responsible for overseeing the club’s day-to-day operations, and ensuring that the team is well-equipped to perform to the best of its abilities.
He has been credited with helping the team to win various trophies during his tenure as sporting director. Overall, Pierre Sanharib Issa is a highly successful soccer player and sporting director.
He has achieved a lot of success in his career and is a source of inspiration for many aspiring footballers.
46. Thibang Phete
Cafu Phete, formally known as Thibang Sindile Theophilus Phete, is a professional South African soccer player who plays as a defender for the South African national team.
He is a talented athlete who began his career at Stars of Africa Football Academy, a renowned football academy in South Africa. Cafu Phete is well known for his impressive defensive skills, which he has shown in many of his matches for the national team.
His time at the academy helped to hone his skills and develop his talents, enabling him to become an integral part of the South African national team.
Cafu Phete is a highly respected figure in the world of football and continues to be an inspiration to aspiring footballers, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to great success.
47. Veli Mothwa
Veli Mothwa is a South African soccer player who is currently playing for the South African Premier Division side AmaZulu. He is also a member of the South African national team. Mothwa is a goalkeeper, an important position in the sport of soccer.
As a goalkeeper, Mothwa has the responsibility of protecting his team’s goal. He is tasked with stopping the opposing team from scoring, which can be a difficult challenge.
His job is to be a last-ditch defender, making it difficult for the opposing team to get close to the goal. As a goalkeeper, Mothwa must also be a leader on the field, organizing his defensive line and giving guidance to his teammates.
Mothwa’s presence in the South African Premier Division and national team is a testament to his skill and dedication as a goalkeeper.
He has proved himself to be a reliable presence on the field, making it difficult for the opposing team to score, which is a crucial part of the game.
48. Siyanda Xulu
Siyanda Xulu is a professional soccer player from South Africa who currently plays for the SuperSport United club and the South African national team. He is a center-back, which is a defensive position in soccer that often involves marking opponents and blocking shots on goal.
Xulu is an experienced player, having played for the South African U-20 team in the 2011 FIFA World Cup and being part of the South African squad for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
He also has experience playing domestically, having played for clubs like AmaZulu and Maritzburg United.
Xulu is an integral part of both the SuperSport United and the South African national team, providing a strong defensive presence and contributing to the team’s overall success.
Conclusion
The South African National Soccer Team has some of the best players in the world. With a strong defense and an attacking style of play, the team has been able to achieve success at the international level.
Some of the most talented players in the team include the likes of Steven Pienaar, Siphiwe Tshabalala, and Teko Modise. These players have been the backbone of the South African National Soccer Team and have helped the team to reach the heights it has today..
