Teboho Mokoena nomination puts PSL on African football’s biggest stage

Teboho Mokoena will represent both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African domestic game after being named among the 10 nominees for the 2026 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.

The Bafana Bafana midfielder is the only player on the shortlist currently based at an African club. The other nine nominees play for teams outside the continent, underlining the significance of Mokoena’s recognition.

The list is led by reigning winner Achraf Hakimi of Paris Saint-Germain and includes former recipient Sadio Mane, who now plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo and Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa are also in contention.

The remaining nominees are Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, Ismael Saibari of Bayern Munich, Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr and Pape Gueye of Villarreal.

Mokoena’s selection reflects his contribution to Sundowns and South Africa, while also placing the Betway Premiership alongside some of the most prominent leagues in Europe and the Middle East.

The 29-year-old played an important part in Sundowns’ run to the CAF Champions League title. He scored in the second leg of the final against AS FAR as the South African club secured its second continental crown.

His inclusion gives the Premier Soccer League representation in one of the CAF Awards’ leading individual categories and highlights the influence locally based players can still have at the highest level of African club football.

The former SuperSport United midfielder has received further recognition through a second nomination at the 2026 CAF Awards.

He has been shortlisted for the Men’s Interclub Player of the Year award alongside his Mamelodi Sundowns team-mate Khuliso Mudau. The award is given for performances in CAF’s club competitions.

The 2026 CAF Awards ceremony will be held in Lagos, Nigeria, on December 7.