Early stars shine in Betway Premiership

The 2025/26 Betway Premiership season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with early signs pointing to a fiercely contested battle at both ends of the table.

As the league pauses for the international break, Mamelodi Sundowns continue to flex their dominance, yet this time their supremacy faces genuine threats — not only from traditional rivals Orlando Pirates but also from a handful of ambitious challengers determined to close the gap.

With the campaign only beginning to gather full momentum, here’s a look at some of the standout performers who have already left their mark this season.

Bradley Grobler

The former SuperSport United striker has been central to his new club’s impressive rise to the top of the Betway Premiership during the early stages of the campaign with his six goals. The experienced forward has provided Eric Tinkler with the cutting edge in front of goal that could prove vital over the course of the season.

Even though Babina Noko have recently suffered a dip in form, Tinkler will take comfort in Grobler’s fitness and consistency. The veteran remains sharp and dangerous in every outing and could once again be the catalyst to reignite their push for form and stability.

Junior Dion

Despite Golden Arrows currently sitting ninth on the table, their performances suggest they may finish far higher by season’s end — and leading that charge has been Junior Dion. The Ivorian striker has hit the ground running under Manqoba Mngqithi, quickly establishing himself as a crucial figure in Arrows’ attack.

Released by AmaZulu before the start of the campaign, Dion has embraced his new opportunity in Durban, topping the league’s scoring charts with seven goals and showing no signs of slowing down.

Iqraam Rayners

The Mamelodi Sundowns forward continues to underline his value with another strong start following his stellar 2024/25 season. While game time has been somewhat limited this term, the former Stellenbosch FC star has made every minute count.

With six goals and two assists to his name, Rayners has once again demonstrated his versatility and composure in front of goal — key traits that Miguel Cardoso will be counting on as Sundowns chase an unprecedented ninth consecutive league title.

Puso Dithejane

The 21-year-old midfielder has been a revelation for Adnan Beganovic’s side, standing out even as the club battled through the early turbulence of their Fifa transfer ban. Now sitting in eighth place, much of their turnaround owes to Dithejane’s creativity and work rate.

With three goals and four assists so far, the talented youngster recently earned a place in Hugo Broos’ recent preliminary national team squad. Carrying the weight of expectation, Dithejane has shown maturity beyond his years, stepping up as a driving force in the Rockets midfield.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi

The Orlando Pirates defender has been instrumental in his team’s impressive defensive record, with the Buccaneers conceding the fewest goals (five) so far this season. Mbokazi — now in just his second season with the club — has not only been a key figure at the back but has also led with authority as captain.

His partnership with Lebone Seema has developed into a formidable defensive pairing, so much so that club skipper Nkosinathi Sibisi has had to wait for his opportunity since recovering from injury.