PSL coaches who impressed in the first half of the season

Abdeslam Ouaddou was undoubtedly the standout coach in the PSL top flight in the first half of the season, winning two trophies — the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout — while also finishing top of the Betway Premiership standings.

However, there were five other coaches who impressed, even if their results were not as eye-catching. Here, Mihlali Baleka looks at that shortlist.

Arthur Zwane – AmaZulu

When Zwane started the season as sole head coach of Usuthi, expectations were high following the departure of co-coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi and a disappointing spell at Kaizer Chiefs.

More than 15 games into the campaign, Zwane has delivered solid results. Usuthu finished the year fifth on the table, blending senior players with a mostly youthful squad that has consistently battled for results.

Zwane has instilled a modern style of play focused on build-up football, allowing forwards and pacy wingers to exploit their strengths and create attacking opportunities.

Alexander Lafitte – Marumo Gallants

Lafitte arrived at Gallants with little fanfare and at just 29-years old, faced scepticism about his ability to manage in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues.

He has since silenced critics, reviving Gallants’ style of play and adding structure through the experience and creativity of midfielder Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo. Gallants reached the Carling Knockout final, losing in extra time to Pirates after impressive victories over Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch and Golden Arrows.

Manqoba Mngqithi – Golden Arrows

Mngqithi, disappointed by a lack of time to implement his system at Mamelodi Sundowns last season, has found renewed passion at Arrows.

Abafana Bes’thende have displayed an attractive style of football, highlighting pace and trickery, with Siyanda Ndlovu winning the September/October Player of the Month award. Mngqithi’s efforts were recognised with his selection as head coach of the Carling All Stars, who lost 2–0 to the Carling Knockout champions at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Phuti Mohafe – Polokwane City

Few PSL coaches are as tactically astute and disciplined as Mohafe. Even without the most talented squad, he consistently produces strong performances and develops young players.

Mohafe has overseen the rise of Oswin Appollis, now a star at Pirates, and ensured Thabang Matuludi earned a place in Bafana Bafana’s final squad, following in Appollis’ footsteps. Maintaining momentum will be key if Rise and Shine are to secure another top-eight finish.

Adnan Beganovic – TS Galaxy

Beganovic faced early-season frustration when the Rockets were hampered by a Fifa-imposed ban. Once lifted, the team began to gather momentum and post improved results.

Much of Galaxy’s success has been driven by young players including Phuso Dithejane, Seluleko Mahlambi, Siphesihle Maduna and Khulumani Ndamane — a quartet likely to attract attention from scouts in the second half of the season. Beganovic will need to strike the right balance to push Galaxy beyond last season’s fifth-place finish.