Which stars shine brightest in South African sports?
From rugby to cricket and even soccer, South Africa has a wealth of talent.
Explore the most popular soccer players from South Africa and their remarkable achievements in this thrilling arena.
Also, check out this article for a broader look at the most popular athletes from South Africa.
Most popular soccer players from South Africa:
- Benni McCarthy
- Aaron Mokoena
- Steven Pienaar
- Lucas Radebe
- Doctor Khumalo
- Noko Matlou
- Thembinkosi Lorch
- Refiloe Jane
- Siphiwe Tshabalala
- Bongani Zungu
- Itumeleng Khune
Table of Contents
#1 Benni McCarthy
- 🎂 Born in: 1977
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: UEFA Champions League winner with FC Porto
Benni McCarthy, a prolific South African striker, has left a significant impact on both domestic and international football. His goal-scoring abilities and flair for the game made him a household name.
His successful stints in European leagues have earned him a well-respected status both on and off the field.
#2 Aaron Mokoena
- 🎂 Born in: 1980
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Most capped player in South African national team history
Aaron Mokoena, a commanding central defender and former South African national team captain, has had an influential career at both club and international levels. His leadership and defensive prowess made him a key figure in the teams he represented.
Mokoena’s extensive experience has contributed significantly to South African soccer.
#3 Steven Pienaar
- 🎂 Born in: 1982
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Three-time South African Player of the Year
Steven Pienaar, a talented attacking midfielder, has enjoyed a successful career playing for some of Europe’s top clubs and representing South Africa in several international tournaments. His skill, creativity, and vision on the field have made him a standout player.
His performances in the English Premier League solidified his place as one of South Africa’s top soccer talents.
#4 Lucas Radebe
- 🎂 Born in: 1969
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Leeds United captain and South African Footballer of the Year
Lucas Radebe, a central defender known for his leadership qualities and immense loyalty, has been an inspiration for many aspiring South African soccer players. His successful career at Leeds United in England and his role as captain of South Africa’s national team made him a legendary figure in the sport.
Radebe’s commitment to the game and his influence in South African soccer cannot be overstated.
#5 Doctor Khumalo
- 🎂 Born in: 1967
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 1996 Africa Cup of Nations winner
Doctor Khumalo, a gifted midfield playmaker, became a South African soccer icon for his exceptional skill and technique on the field. Khumalo left a lasting impact on South African soccer during a transformative period for the national team in the 1990s.
His contributions as a player and later as a coach are an integral part of South African soccer history.
#6 Noko Matlou
- 🎂 Born in: 1985
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2008 CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year
Noko Matlou, a trailblazer in South African women’s soccer, has broken down barriers and inspired many young female soccer players in South Africa. Her goal-scoring abilities and tireless work ethic on the field have earned her numerous accolades.
Matlou’s success on the international stage has significantly advanced women’s soccer in South Africa.
#7 Thembinkosi Lorch
- 🎂 Born in: 1993
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2019 South African Footballer of the Year
Thembinkosi Lorch, an exciting attacking midfielder, has made a name for himself in recent years due to his scintillating performances in the South African Premier Soccer League. His dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favorite.
Lorch’s rise in the domestic league has translated well to the international stage, making him one of South Africa’s most highly-regarded talents.
#8 Refiloe Jane
- 🎂 Born in: 1992
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: South African Women’s Footballer of the Year 2018 and 2019
Refiloe Jane, a dominant central midfielder, has been instrumental in the growth and success of South African women’s soccer. Her technical abilities and tireless effort on the field have earned her recognition both at home and abroad.
With her performances in domestic leagues and for the South African national team, Jane has set a new standard for aspiring female soccer players in the country.
#9 Siphiwe Tshabalala
- 🎂 Born in: 1984
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Scoring the opening goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
Siphiwe Tshabalala, a skillful left winger, has become an icon in South African soccer. His memorable opening goal against Mexico in the 2010 FIFA World Cup became an instant classic, etching his place in soccer history.
Tshabalala’s impact on the field and the hearts of South African soccer fans remains unmatched.
#10 Bongani Zungu
- 🎂 Born in: 1992
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Playing for top European clubs and the South African national team
Bongani Zungu, a versatile central midfielder, has earned a place among South Africa’s top soccer players through his performances both domestically and internationally. His exploits in the European leagues and for the South African national team have made him a highly-regarded talent.
Zungu’s continued success on the global stage exemplifies the quality of South African soccer players.
#11 Itumeleng Khune
- 🎂 Born in: 1987
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: South African Footballer of the Year 2008
Itumeleng Khune, an exceptional goalkeeper, has long been a mainstay for the South African national team and domestic league giants Kaizer Chiefs. His shot-stopping ability, accurate distribution, and leadership qualities have made him one of South Africa’s best goalkeepers.
Khune’s influential presence on the pitch has inspired a generation of young South African goalkeepers.
FAQ
Who is the greatest soccer player in South Africa’s history?
Benni McCarthy is often regarded as the greatest soccer player in South Africa’s history.
Who is the most famous female soccer player from South Africa?
Portia Modise is the most notable female soccer player from South Africa.
Which South African soccer player is most recognized internationally?
Steven Pienaar is likely the most internationally recognized South African soccer player due to his successful international career.
Understanding soccer’s complexity and appeal is essential, as discussed in our analysis of why soccer is the hardest sport.
