Kekana Reflects on PSL's Genesis as Pirates Crowned 2025/26 Champions

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) marks its 30th anniversary, prompting reflections from figures who have shaped its rich history. Among them is former midfield maestro Hlompho Kekana, who shared a poignant memory from the league's inaugural 1996/97 season, revealing a childhood aspiration to be a ball boy.

Kekana recounted attending a match between Real Rovers and Hellenic at Pietersburg Stadium, now known as Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, alongside his brother. This experience, he explained, profoundly deepened his connection to the game, inspiring a desire to be closer to the action and the players on the pitch.

"I wanted to be a ball boy in the next match"— Hlompho Kekana.

While Kekana's reflection offers a nostalgic look at the league's origins, the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season has recently concluded with significant developments. Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates have been crowned champions, securing their fifth league title and their first since the 2011/12 campaign. This triumph brings an end to Mamelodi Sundowns' dominant eight-year reign at the summit of South African football.

The Buccaneers finished the 30-game season at the top of the table with 69 points and an impressive goal difference of +46. Mamelodi Sundowns, despite a strong challenge, finished a close second with 68 points and a +36 goal difference. Kaizer ChiefsTeam·Kaizer Chiefs secured third place with 54 points, marking a notable improvement from their previous season's performance.

The financial rewards for success were substantial, with Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates receiving R20 million in prize money for their championship victory.

Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates demonstrated blistering form throughout the season, culminating in their title win. Their recent results included a commanding 3-0 victory over AmaZulu, a 2-0 win against Stellenbosch, and another 3-0 triumph against Magesi FCTeam·Magesi FC. The club also maintained the longest unbeaten run in the league, stretching to 14 matches.

Mamelodi Sundowns, while relinquishing the league title, showcased their resilience and attacking prowess, particularly in a high-scoring 7-4 win over Siwelele FC. They also held the longest winning run in the league with 10 consecutive victories. Their season was further highlighted by success on the continental stage, as Mamelodi Sundowns went on to win the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2025/26 trophy, marking their second triumph in the competition.

Kaizer ChiefsTeam·Kaizer Chiefs' third-place finish ensures their second consecutive appearance in the CAF Confederation CupCompetition·CAF Confederation Cup, where they will receive a bye in the first preliminary round. This signals a period of rebuilding and renewed ambition for the Soweto giants.

Hlompho Kekana, though retired from playing, remains an influential voice in South African football. During the 2025/26 season, he provided insights into Mamelodi Sundowns' mental fortitude and experience ahead of their successful CAF Champions League final. Kekana also emphasized the critical importance of a proper pre-season for Sundowns, noting that an extended break and European tour would be vital for the club's pursuit of silverware across multiple competitions and for effectively integrating new signings into their system for the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.