Strong DDC Campaign Sees Bennet Mokoena Finish as Top Scorer
Author: Erica MathyeAt just 19 years old, Bennet Mokoena is already writing one of the most exciting young chapters in Mamelodi Sundowns’ recent history. And yet, for all the buzz around him, there is a calm reminder from those who know him best: he is still young — let him grow, let him enjoy the game, let him shine at his own pace.His journey into the spotlight began on 24 September 2025, when he made his first-team debut against Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership. Coming on as a second-half substitute, the teenager earned his first senior cap — a moment that marked the beginning of something special.

But the real fireworks came in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC), where “Big Benz” exploded into one of the most lethal finishers in the country. He finished the season as the Top Goal Scorer, netting 22 goals in 26 league matches, and came within touching distance of breaking the all-time DDC scoring record.
His season stats were amazing: a double brace in the 5–2 win over Durban City, plus two hat‑tricks, two additional braces and several season‑defining performances that showcased his consistency throughout the campaign.

And just when the season seemed complete, he added another headline moment: scoring in the 3–1 victory over RB Leipzig in the high-profile international friendly, The Red Bull Diski Last Namba match — a goal that showcased his composure on a global stage.
Mokoena reflects on the season with pride, gratitude and humility, “Being the top goal scorer feels really good. I set a target to score as many goals as I could, and I did that. But I have to give credit to my teammates and coaches, as they pushed me every day. Coach Tiro van Rooyen especially motivated me to enjoy football and give my best in every session and every match. Each goal comes from an assist, I am thankful that my teammates believed in me.”

The Vaal-born striker’s rise has been anything but accidental. He came through the Sundowns Academy, earned his first Diski appearance late in the 2023/24 season, and entered the new campaign with clear ambitions: score goals, lead the team and challenge for DDC Player of the Season.

The end of season awards might still be pending but Bennet has already achieved most of what he set out to do.

“My goals were to get promoted to the First Team and be an influential player and win the league with the team. We did not win the league, but we scored the most goals and I am proud of that. I reached most of the targets I set for myself.”
His favourite match — and the one that changed his trajectory — was the 5–2 win over Durban City, where he scored four goals in a performance that caught the eye of Coach Miguel Cardoso.

“That game changed everything. Scoring four goals and then getting a First Team call-up was unbelievable. It boosted my confidence and made me want to work even harder.”

Training with the senior squad was a dream come true. “It felt surreal. My family was proud because they knew how much I wanted this. Being around experienced players helped me improve my intensity, my performance and even my mindset off the field.”

And while the hype around him grows, Mokoena remains grounded. This is just the beginning and he knows it.

“I just want to keep improving, keep learning and hopefully get more First Team minutes. I want to enjoy football and keep growing.”
GET TO KNOW BIG BENZ — RAPID FIRE QUESTIONSTop 3 pre-match songs:
Mollo, Lerumo, Dumelang — all by Malome VectorToughest opponent faced:
Moses Mphekgoane from Orlando PiratesFavourite goal:
The strike against Polokwane City (away) in the 1–3 winHome or away?
Home: “There is nothing like playing in front of the Yellow Nation supporters.”
Favourite stadium to play in:
Lucas Moripe Stadium