Zimbabwean soccer players have long made their mark on the South African Premiership. They are known for their flair, skill, and fighting spirit on the pitch.
Since the Premier Soccer League (PSL) era began in 1996, Zimbabweans have become key figures in the South African premiership. Some became household names and legends of the South African game.
Wilfred Mugeyi – The Silver Fox
Wilfred Mugeyi set the standard for Zimbabweans in South Africa. He scored 22 goals in the inaugural PSL season with Umtata Bush Bucks. That campaign saw him win Player of the Season, Players’ Player, and Golden Boot.
Nicknamed “Silver Fox”, Mugeyi combined sharp movement with clinical finishing. He later played for Ajax Cape Town and Free State Stars, always a danger in the box. From 1996 to 2007, he scored 91 league goals and remains fifth on the PSL’s all-time list. Mugeyi’s legacy still inspires many young Zimbabwean attackers. He paved the way for others to shine in South African soccer.
Peter Ndlovu – Trailblazing Icon
Peter Ndlovu was the first African to play in the English Premier League. He later became a vital figure at Mamelodi Sundowns from 2004 to 2009. Even in the twilight of his career, he made a strong impression in the PSL.
Nicknamed "Nsukuzonke", Ndlovu helped Sundowns win the league in 2006. His leadership and experience were priceless both on and off the pitch. He scored goals, assisted others, and served as a mentor to younger players.
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Bulls to charge into Zimbabwe gold stocks
- Ndiraya concerned as goals dry up
- Letters: How solar power is transforming African farms
Keep Reading
Ndlovu's international fame brought more attention to the PSL. He remains one of Zimbabwe’s most revered soccer exports of all time.
Khama Billiat – Electrifying South African Premiership Star
Khama Billiat is one of the PSL’s most exciting players in recent memory. He began his top-flight journey at Ajax Cape Town, showing early promise. Later, he reached his peak at Mamelodi Sundowns, where he won seven trophies.
At Sundowns, he lifted three PSL titles and the CAF Champions League. In 2016, he won both the PSL Player of the Season and Players’ Player awards. Billiat’s skill, pace and vision made him a nightmare for defenders.
He then played for Kaizer Chiefs before leaving the South African Premiership in 2023 and now plays for Scottland FC following a short stint at Yadah Stars. His legacy in South African soccer is already secure despite some recent struggles. Italian coach Giovanni Solinas once famously said, "Chiefs have ten players and Billiat."
Tinashe Nengomasha – The General
Tinashe Nengomasha was the heartbeat of Kaizer Chiefs’ midfield for a decade. He joined Amakhosi in 2002 and played until 2012, winning 10 major trophies. In 2004, he helped them to their first-ever PSL title.
That same year, Nengomasha was named both Player of the Season and Players' Player. He was a combative midfielder who read the game brilliantly and rarely lost a duel. Nicknamed “The General”, he led by example and had a huge engine.
His commitment and tactical awareness made him a fan favourite. To this day, many Chiefs fans consider him one of their greatest midfielders.
Benjani Mwaruwari – Powerful and Prolific
Benjani Mwaruwari rose to fame at Jomo Cosmos between 1999 and 2002. He scored 20 goals in 45 starts, earning the 2001 PSL Player of the Season award. His move to Europe began with a transfer to Swiss side Grasshoppers.
Later, he played for top English clubs including Portsmouth and Manchester City. Benjani’s story is one of raw talent and strong work ethic. In South Africa, he was known for his physical presence and powerful finishing.
His rise from Ezenkosi to the Premier League still inspires players today. Benjani showed that the PSL could launch careers on the global stage.
Knowledge Musona – The Smiling Assassin
Knowledge Musona had two successful stints at Kaizer Chiefs. He first joined in 2009 and left in 2011 as the league’s top scorer. Later, he returned on loan for the 2013/14 season and remained prolific.
Musona was known for his calm finishing, intelligent movement, and pace. He won the Golden Boot in 2010/11 with 15 league goals. His goals were key to Chiefs’ back-to-back Telkom Knockout wins. Musona’s performances earned him a move to Germany with TSG Hoffenheim. He is widely seen as one of Zimbabwe’s most naturally gifted attackers.
Marshall Munetsi – Midfield Machine
Although Marshall Munetsi made only a brief impact in the PSL, he deserves a mention. He played for Baroka FC and Orlando Pirates between 2015 and 2019. During that time, he developed into a strong, versatile midfielder.
Munetsi could play in defence or midfield and was excellent at breaking up play. After leaving South Africa, he joined Stade de Reims in France’s Ligue 1 and later Wolves (917.66) in the Premier League.His PSL spell helped lay the foundation for his European rise. He is proof that South Africa remains a great platform for Zimbabwean talent.
Zimbabwe’s Lasting Legacy in the PSL
From Silver Fox to The General, Zimbabweans have enriched South African soccer. They’ve brought flair, passion, and professionalism to the game. Even with new stars emerging, these legends still inspire future generations.
For fans and punters alike, Zimbabwean stars have often offered great value in online sports betting. Their impact on club success and individual awards remains unmatched in many cases. As the PSL grows, Zimbabwean players are likely to stay part of its heartbeat.
