Photo by Leandra Smeda (Instagram)

Leandra Smeda of TS Galaxy Queens has been named the 2026 SAFJA Women’s Footballer of the Year, earning one of South African women’s football’s top individual honours after a standout campaign in the Hollywoodbets Super League.

The veteran forward was crowned by the South African Football Journalists’ Association (SAFJA) on Monday, November 9, after a season of influential performances for TS Galaxy Queens.

Her consistency and impact in attack helped distinguish her in a competitive field of nominees.

Smeda claimed the award ahead of her teammate Dineo Magagula, JVW’s Bonolo Mokoma and Mamelodi Sundowns’ Karabo Dlamini.

The shortlist brought together players from several of the league’s leading sides, underlining the strength of the competition for the honour.

The award adds another landmark to Smeda’s long career in the game.

A seasoned presence in the forward line, she has continued to demonstrate her value at club level, combining experience with the attacking threat that made her a leading contender for the journalists’ recognition.

Her performances have also reinforced TS Galaxy Queens’ standing in the Hollywoodbets Super League, where individual quality and collective consistency are vital across a demanding campaign.

For the club, Smeda’s recognition is an important achievement and a reflection of the contribution she has made on the pitch.

The competition was particularly notable given the calibre of the other nominees. Magagula’s inclusion highlighted the strength within Smeda’s own squad, while Mokoma and Dlamini represented two other prominent teams in South African women’s football.

Smeda’s victory therefore marks a notable personal success in a field featuring established performers and rising talent.

SAFJA’s annual awards recognise achievement in the domestic game, with journalists selecting players whose performances have made a defining impression.

The Women’s Footballer of the Year prize places Smeda among the standout figures of the 2026 season and celebrates her role in the continued growth and visibility of the women’s game.

For Smeda, the accolade is recognition not only of a strong run of form but also of the sustained contribution required to remain influential over a long career.

At TS Galaxy Queens, her experience and finishing ability have provided an important presence, while her performances have earned her recognition beyond the club.

The 2026 award also offers a moment to celebrate the depth of talent in the Hollywoodbets Super League.

With players from TS Galaxy Queens, JVW and Mamelodi Sundowns among the finalists, the shortlist reflected the league’s competitive landscape and the range of performers making an impact.

Smeda’s name now headlines this year’s SAFJA honours, capping a memorable campaign for the forward and her club.

Source And Reference (Twitter)

https://x.com/i/status/2119764984377000189