Every DStv Premiership season, there are youngsters who light up and impress. The 2023/24 DStv Premiership campaign promises to be no different, as some youngsters have already impressed in the opening few matches.
Last season, it was former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula who made an impact, winning the Young Player of the Season award. The goal poacher was deadly in front of goal, scoring 15 goals while also providing four assists in 31 matches.
For his superb performances, he got a Bafana Bafana call-up and, at the end of the season, caught the eye of MLS side Toronto FC, who snatched him.
FARPost writer Otis Ntshangase looks at the next generation of stars: 10 youngsters to watch in the new season.
THAPELO MASEKO
Mamelodi Sundowns’ new signing promises to have a great campaign after impressing at SuperSport United last season, which earned him his first Bafana Bafana call-up.
Since his arrival at Masandawana, he has played in all three matches in all competitions.
The 20-year-old impressed on his debut, providing an assist as the Tshwane giants defeated Sekhukhune United 2-1 in a league clash. In his second game against Kaizer Chiefs he was named the Man of the Match.
RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG
The 18-year-old has been a revelation since his promotion to the Orlando Pirates senior team in the latter stages of last season.
So far this campaign, the Pirates academy graduate has played three matches in all competitions. He hasn’t scored but provided an assist in the Chippa United game. However, he has contributed a lot in the final third with sub-assists.
SHANDRE CAMPBELL
The SuperSport United academy graduate impressed on his debut in the opening day of the season in a 2-0 win against Richards Bay FC.
Campbell was handed his first start by coach Gavin Hunt and walked away with the Man of the Match award. He provided Terrence Dzvukamanja with an assist and played a role in Etiosa Ighodaro’s second goal.
MDUDUZI SHABALALA
The 19-year-old had a great spell with Kaizer Chiefs last season as he became a regular in the starting line-up.
Shabalala made 22 appearances in all competitions, scored two goals and provided two assists. This season, he has only made one appearance in the league.
JAEDIN RHODES
The talented attacking midfielder has become a key player for Cape Town City FC under Eric Tinkler.
This season, he has started all three matches and has impressed. He, however, hasn’t contributed towards a goal but has been active in attack.
ANTONIO VAN WYK
The SA Under-23 forward has already shown glimpses of what to expect this season. The 21-year-old scored the winner as the Stellies defeated Orlando Pirates 1-0 in the league.
SIYANDA MTHANTI
The 19-year-old had a debut to remember on the opening day of the league against Moroka Swallows. The winger came off the bench and scored a goal to salvage a point for Golden Arrows as the match ended 1-1.
RUSHWIN DORTLEY
The versatile defender played a big role for Cape Town Spurs, gaining promotion to the DStv Premiership last season in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and PSL Promotion/Relegation playoffs. This season, the 21-year-old has started two league matches and impressed.
SAMKELO ZWANE
The Chiefs DDC graduate impressed last season in the midfield. All-in-all, the 21-year-old played 15 matches in all competitions. This season, his only appearance was in the MTN8, coming in the stoppage time.
BOITUMELO RADIOPANE
The goal poacher impressed at Cape Town Spurs last season, netting seven goals in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The 21-year-old is yet to make an appearance for the Capetonians this season in the DStv Premiership after sustaining an injury towards the end of last campaign.
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