Orlando Pirates duo Mofokeng and Appollis tipped for South African league Player of Season

Former Orlando Pirates winger Vincent Pule has thrown his support behind Relebohile Mofokeng and Oswin Appollis in the race for the South African Premiership Footballer of the Season award following the club’s success in the top-flight.

Pule, now on the books of Siwelele FC, believes the two attacking players have delivered a level of consistency and influence that sets them apart from the rest of the league, particularly in decisive moments throughout the 2025/26 season.

The debate around the season’s top individual honour has intensified as the campaign draws to a close, but Pule feels the award should come down to either of the Pirates attackers based on their output, impact, and overall contribution in key fixtures.

Both Mofokeng and Appollis have played central roles in a strong season for Orlando Pirates, who have been competing at the top end of the table and pushing Mamelodi Sundowns in the title race.

Appollis, in particular, has enjoyed a standout debut season following his move from Polokwane City. The Bafana Bafana international quickly settled into life at a bigger club and became a vital part of Pirates’ attacking structure across all competitions.

He delivered a major impact in cup competitions, registering two assists in the MTN8 final and scoring a crucial goal in the Carling Knockout semi-final. In league action, he has added nine goals and six assists, establishing himself as one of the most productive attacking midfielders in the country.

Mofokeng, meanwhile, has continued his rapid rise from emerging talent to established star. The young winger has reached double figures in league goals for the first time in his career and also found the net in the Carling Knockout final, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure matches.

For Pule, the numbers and consistency produced by both players make a strong case for one of them to be crowned the league’s best performer.

“I’ll say between Relebohile and Appollis. One of them deserves it,” Pule said. “They’ve had a very good season and have been consistent. As wingers or number 10s, you need to contribute goals, and their stats show that. Appollis has nine goals and Rele has 10 — that’s excellent for their positions.”

The Pirates duo have been central to the club’s impressive campaign, providing creativity, goals, and attacking sharpness as the Soweto giants continue to challenge the dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns in South African football.

With individual awards season approaching, both Mofokeng and Appollis now stand among the leading contenders for the PSL’s top individual honour, reflecting their growing influence in one of the most competitive seasons in recent years.