Hotto leads PSL assist chart 

Deon Hotto is currently leading the assist chart in the South African Premier Division with eight assists.

The Namibian winger (35) is enjoying a fantastic season with Orlando Pirates, currently topping the league’s assist standings with eight, followed by fellow teammates Oswin Appolis and Relebohile Mofokeng – both second with six assists.

Hotto was converted into a left-back by coach José Riveiro last season after being a winger his entire career, and has since cemented his authority in that position. Even under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou he has remained a key player, featuring in 19 of the club’s 24 league matches during the 2025/26 campaign.

In their latest match, Pirates were held to a 2-2 draw by Richards Bay, who had fellow Namibian Tuli Nashixwa (23) in action.

The defensive midfielder played the full match as Pirates missed the chance to go top of the table. Mamelodi Sundowns lead the standings with 56 points, followed closely by Pirates on 55.

Hotto provided the assist for Lebone Seema as Pirates equalised deep into stoppage time (90+2) to secure a crucial point in their title chase.

His league assists this season have come against Golden Arrows, TS Galaxy, Polokwane City, Kaizer Chiefs (twice), Chippa United, and Marumo Gallants, as well as another against Golden Arrows. In addition to his impressive assist tally, he has also scored one goal in the league.

Hotto has now taken his total number of league assists in South Africa’s top flight to 85, across spells with Bloemfontein Celtic, Golden Arrows, Bidvest Wits, and Orlando Pirates. His personal best in a single season remains 15 assists, achieved in 2015 when he was named Kick Off Magazine Player of the Season.

Since joining Orlando Pirates, Hotto has reached double figures for assists twice during the 2020 and 2022 seasons, with 10 assists being his previous best for the club until now.

Hotto’s performances have also earned praise from opposition coaches. Manqoba Mngqithi of Golden Arrows was particularly impressed after their 5-0 defeat, a match in which Hotto also registered an assist.

“It’s so strange that I’ve always used Hotto as an example when I talk to my players. I think Hotto is a very good footballer, but his biggest strength is his intensity.

“The way he works and the way he runs is a lesson for young players who are still earning nothing and haven’t achieved anything yet. When you look at Hotto’s age and the intensity he plays with, you’ll understand why I always mention him to my players. I really admire the effort he puts into his game.”

With Hotto now on 85 career league assists, many are beginning to back him to reach the remarkable milestone of 100 assists.

GOLDEN ARROWS BEAT DURBAN CITY

In South Africa, Edward Maova kept a clean sheet as Golden Arrows secured a 1-0 win against Durban City – his third in the league from eight games played.

Peter Shalulile remains sidelined with an injury, as confirmed by Mamelodi Sundowns’ team doctor on their social media platforms.

The team secured a 1-0 away victory against Esperance Tunis in the CAF Champions League first leg, with the second leg set to be played in South Africa on Saturday at 15h00.

Bethuel Muzue and Loydt Kazapua were in action as their team, Black Leopards, secured a much-needed 1-0 victory against the University of Pretoria in their quest for survival. They remain second from bottom with 21 points, now just four points away from safety.

Ndisiro Kamaijanda started on the bench, while Ngero Katua was not included in the squad as Highbury FC suffered a 2-1 loss against log leaders Kruger FC. Highbury are 7th.

In Malaysia, Petrus Shitembi played the full game as his side comfortably defeated PDRM 4-1 in the Malaysian Premier League. Kuching City has now moved up to second place with 43 points, behind leaders Johor Darul with 61 points. Kuching’s next match will be a semi-final second leg against Selangor FC, with the aggregate score tied at 1-1. They will be hoping to reach their first cup final this season.

In Kosovo, Romeo was in the starting line-up for Liria Prizren, while Uetuuru Kambato started on the bench as they secured a 5-2 victory in the Kosovo First Division. They sit fifth with 53 points, just two points shy of a playoff spot in third place.

In Zimbabwe, Moses Shidolo started for Scotland FC as they drew 0-0 with Bulawayo Chiefs, dropping to fifth position, while fellow Namibian striker Isaskar Gurirab started on the bench.

Mbakondja Tjahikika played the full game as Platinum drew 1-1 with Dynamos. The attacking midfielder has now cemented his place in the starting eleven, having not missed a single game since joining.

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