Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ON-FIRE Zimbabwe striker Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya has been rewarded for his blistering start to the South African 2026/27 football season, with the AmaZulu forward being the Betway Premiership Player of the Month for August.
Ngwenya has also become an early pacesetter in the race for the league’s Golden Boot award.
The 23-year-old scored five goals in four matches to move to the top of the South African Premiership scoring charts and help the Durban-based side rise into fourth position.
In winning the award, Ngwenya beat TS Galaxy forward Victor Letsoalo and Orlando Pirates defender Lebone Seema.
A panel of Premier Soccer League-accredited journalists decides the winners of the accolade.
And for Ngwenya, winning the award caps a fruitful period in which his exploits for AmaZulu have also caught the attention of new Warriors coach Ramon Catala, who has recalled him to the senior national team fold.
Ngwenya last played for the Warriors when he was at FC Platinum, with successive call-ups being derailed by a spate of injuries that stalked him for much of last year.
He was included in the Warriors provisional squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group E qualifying assignments against Sierra Leone away and Democratic Republic of Congo at home.
Ngwenya noted that his award was a result of the collective effort by all at Usuthu.
“I am delighted to receive this award because it reflects the work that I have been putting in with my teammates and the technical team,” said Ngwenya.
“Scoring five goals in four matches is a good start, but I know the season is still long. I have to remain focused, continue working hard and help AmaZulu achieve our objectives.”
Ngwenya endured an injury-disrupted campaign last season but has responded strongly, establishing himself as one of the South African top flight’s early-season stand-out performers.
“Last season was difficult because of the injury, so my biggest target was to return stronger and remain fit,” he said.
“I am enjoying my football again and gaining confidence with every match. As a striker, you always want to score, but contributing to the success of the team is the most important thing.”
His impressive form could strengthen his prospects of making the final Warriors squad and competing for a place in Zimbabwe’s attack.
“Representing Zimbabwe is always a great honour. Being included in the provisional squad shows that my performances are being noticed, but I know that I still have to earn my place in the final team,” said Ngwenya.
“If I get the opportunity, I will give everything for the country. Every Zimbabwean player wants to make the supporters proud.”
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was named Coach of the Month after guiding the defending champions to three victories and a draw in their opening four matches.
African kings Mamelodi Sundowns had forward Brayan Leon claim the Goal of the Month award for his volley that stunned the AmaZulu faithful.
