The opening day of the Curro Halala Cup, Thursday, 7 August, was characterised by goals, impressive skills, and intense competition at HeronBridge College. Photo: Curro Sport on Facebook.
The eagerly awaited finals of the Curro Halala Cup kicked off at HeronBridge College in Gauteng on Thursday, and Navalsig High, and Clapham High caught the eye with strong statements of intent.
In Pool A, Camps Bay High and Stintile Secondary School kicked off proceedings quietly, playing to a goalless draw.
Then, with a decisive 8-1 victory over Brylin High, the biggest win of the day, Navalsig rocketed to the top of the pool standings.
In Pool B, KwaZulu-Natal’s Glenwood High, who secured third place in the Mancosa KwaZulu-Natal High Schools Football Association (KZNHSFA) Coastal A-League, suffered a crushing 0-4 defeat against last year’s Absa Wildeklawer winners, Clapham High.
Northern Academy, who claimed the Kay Motsepe Schools Champions in 2024, started their finals campaign with a decisive 4-0 victory over Flora Park High, mirroring Clapham High’s success against Glenwood.
Hillcrest High, the runner-up in the KZNHSFA Coastal A-League, performed admirably but had to settle for a goalless draw with Meridian Pinehurst. In Group C’s other opening day match, Grey College picked up a tight 1-0 victory over Curro Soshanguve, who gave the Bloemfontein boys a tough workout.
Norkem High and Mondeor High secured convincing wins in Pool D, with Norkem downing Barberton High 5-1 and Mondeor running out 3-1 winners over Westering High.
RESULTS
Pool A
Camps Bay High 0-0 Stintile Secondary School
Navalsig High 8-1 Brylin High
Pool B
Clapham High 4-0 Glenwood High
Northern Academy 4-0 Flora Park High
Pool C
Hillcrest High 0-0 Meridian Pinehurst
Grey College 1-0 Curro Soshanguve
Pool D
Norkem Park High 5-1 Barberton High
Mondeor High 3-1 Westering High
Urban Academy in a team discussion during the Kearsney Soccer Tournament, held in July. Photo. Urban Academy on Facebook.
Urban Academy, in Gqeberha, has made massive strides on the football field in recent seasons, and, from Friday to Sunday, they’ll host their annual Super Soccer Schools Tournament.
Since the start of the season, Urban Academy has been in outstanding form.
A highlight was their performance at the Kearsney Soccer Tournament, where they went through the entire tournament without conceding a goal in open play. Their only defeat occurred in the final, where they lost to the defending champions, Pinetown Boys’ High, 3-1 from the penalty spot.
Since that match, the Urban Academy team has regrouped and continued to improve their already exemplary record.
On Friday, the Super Soccer Schools Tournament kicks off, with Urban Academy being joined by, among others, George Campbell, Bridge House, Westview High School, Victoria Park High, Chapman High, and Linkside High, with competition taking place for both girls and boys.
Boys’ Competition
Group A: Herzlia High, Curro Century, Westview High, De Kuilen High Group B: Alexandra Road, George Campbell, Alexandra High, Ndzondelelo High Group C: Strelitzia High, Urban Academy, Bridge House, Ethembeni Enrichment High
Girls’ Competition
Group A: Chapman High, South Peninsula, Urban Academy, Herzlia High Group B: Alexander Road, Victoria Park, Linkside High, Bergvliet High
Friday, 8 August
Boys’ Fixtures
Field 1
Game 1 – 09:00 – Herzlia High vs Curro Century
Game 7 – 12:00 – Herzlia High vs Westview High
Game 9 – 13:00 – Alexandra High vs Alexander Road
Game 13 – 15:00 – Herzlia High vs De Kuilen High
Game 15 – 16:00 – Urban Academy vs Bridge House High
Field 2
Game 2 – 09:00 – Westview vs De Kuilen High
Game 8 – 12:00 – George Campbell vs Ndzondelelo High
Game 12 – 14:00 – Strelitzia vs Ethembeni Enrichment
Girls’ Fixtures
Field 1
Game 3 – 10:00 – Chapman vs South Peninsula
Game 5 – 11:00 – Linkside vs Bergvliet
Game 11 – 14:00 – Chapman vs Herzlia High
Field 2
Game 4 – 11:00 – Urban Academy vs Herzlia High
Game 6 – Alexander Road vs Victoria Park
Game 10 – 13:00 – Victoria Park vs Bergvliet
Game 14 – 15:00 – Linkside vs Alexander Road
Game 16 – 16:00 – Herzlia vs South Peninsula
Saturday, 9 August
Boys’ Fixtures
Field 1
Game 17 – 09:00 – Alexander Road vs George Campbell
Game 19 – 10:00 – Bridge House vs Ethembeni Enrichment
Game 23 – 13:00 – Curro Century vs Westview
Game 27 – 14:00 – Ethembeni Enrichment vs Urban Academy
Game 29 – 15:00 – Curro Century vs De Kuilen
Field 2
Game 18 – 09:00 – Alexandra High vs Ndzondelelo High
Game 20 – 10:00 – Strelitzia vs Urban Academy
Game 24 – 12:00 – Alexander Road vs Ndzondelelo High
Game 28 – 14:00 – Strelitzia vs Bridge House
Game 30 – 15:00 – George Campbell vs Alexandra High
Girls’ Fixtures
Field 1
Game 21 – 11:00 – Victoria Park vs Linkside
Game 25 – 13:00 – Alexander Road vs Bergvliet
Field 2
Game 22 – 11:00 – South Peninsula vs Urban Academy
Game 26 – 13:00 – Chapman vs Urban Academy
Sunday, 10 August
Boys’ Fixtures
Quarterfinals
Field 1
Game 33 – QF1 – 09:00 – A1 vs 3rd (1st)
Game 35 – QF3 – C1 vs A2
Field 2
Game 34 – 09:00 – QF2 – B1 vs 3rd (2nd)
Game 36 – 10:00 – B2 vs C2
Renowned for delivering exhilarating football action, the 21st annual St David’s Marist Inanda Challenge is poised to captivate spectators from Friday, 8 August, to Sunday, 10 August.
The event, one of South Africa’s premier youth football tournaments, takes place at St David’s, in Sandton, and is proudly sponsored by Nedbank. It was first played in 2003.
Mike Thiel, the Executive Headmaster of St David’s Marist Inanda, described the Challenge Cup as an event that transcends being a football tournament only. It serves as a celebration of youth excellence, discipline, and unity, he said.
“As a Marist school, we believe in nurturing well-rounded young people through sport, academies, and service,” he added.
In a recent press statement, Thiel said the event offers a platform for growth, connection, and pride in every participating school and player.
“We are honoured to welcome our guests and to continue building a legacy that goes beyond the pitch,” he said.
The tournament expands in 2025 to include an u12 competition, which lifts the overall number of competing teams to 38. The u19 Challenge Cup features 16 teams. There are 16 sides in the u15 division, and six teams in the u12 section.
Bradley Ireland, the Deputy Head of Extra Curricular at St David’s, said in a statement that the school was excited to add a junior component to the tournament.
“The growth of the tournament reflects our commitment to inclusive development from a young age,” he said. “The Challenge Cup continues to embody the values of Marist education – teamwork, humility, and striving for excellence – on and off the pitch.”
The Head of Group Sponsorshipand Events at Nedbank, Elvin Smith, said that Nedbank is committed to unlocking South Africa’s potential through investment in youth development and education.
“The Challenge Cup echoes our belief that sport has the power to transform lives, shape futures and foster inclusive communities. Supporting this tournament allows us to stand alongside young athletes, educators, families, and society at large in building a future that reflects the best of what South Africa can achieve,” Smith explained.
The lineup for the u19 Challenge Cup includes Jeppe High School for Boys, Hilton College, the 2024 winners Grey College, and the 2023 champions, Brebner High School, and St Stithians, the winners of the Nedbank Grey College Soccer Tournament in 2023 and 2024.
Grey College, who won the u15 category in 2022, returns to compete in the age group again.
Supporters, families, and football enthusiasts are invited by St David’s as the Challenge Cup presents a festive, family-oriented environment, highlighting the strength of school sports and the influence of community.
u19 Pools
Pool A: Clifton College, Grey College, Hilton College, Jeppe High School for Boys Pool B: Brebner High, Marist Brothers Linmeyer, St Alban’s College, St Stithians College Pool C: King Edward VII, Michaelhouse, St Andrew’s College, St John’s College Pool D: Norkem Park High, St Benedict’s College, St David’s Marist Inanda, St Peter’s College
Friday, 8 August, u19 Fixtures
La Valla Oval: Field A
08:00 – Grey College vs Clifton College
10:20 – St David’s vs St Benedict’s
12:40 – St Stithians vs Marist Linmeyer
15:00 – St David’s vs St Peter’s
La Valla Oval: Field B
08:00 – St Stithians vs Brebner
10:20 – St John’s vs St Andrew’s
12:40 – Grey vs Hilton
15:00 – St John’s vs KES
Grier Oval: Field C
08:00 – St Alban’s vs Marist Linmeyer
10:20 – Norkem Park vs St Peter’s
12:40 – Jeppe vs Clifton
15:00 – Michaelhouse vs St Andrew’s
Gier Oval: Field D
08:00 – Jeppe vs Hilton
10:20 – Michaelhouse vs KES
12:40 – St Alban’s vs Brebner
15:00 – Norkem Park vs St Benedict’s
Saturday, 9 August, u19 Fixtures
La Valla Oval: Field A
10:00 – St David’s vs Norkem Park
11:20 – St Peter’s vs St Benedict’s
La Valla Oval: Field B
10:00 – St Stithians vs St Alban’s
11:20 – Marist Linmeyer vs Brebner
Gier Oval: Field C
10:00 – St John’s vs Michaelhouse
11:20 – KES vs St Andrew’s
Hillcrest High, a team on the rise, will be aiming to make waves at the national final of the Curro Halala Cup. Photo: Hillcrest High on Facebook.
Following many weeks of intense competition spanning eight provinces, the grand finale of the inaugural Curro Halala Cup will see 16 elite teams in action from Thursday to Sunday at HeronBridge College, in Johannesburg.
The competition began with 60 top schools from across the country battling it out, and now it’s down to the last 16. On Sunday, a champion will be crowned, with the winner receiving R100 000.
Introduced as a platform to grow the game, and to foster confidence, resilience, and a sense of community among the youth of South Africa, the Curro Halala Cup has made an impact.
The 16 finalists have been divided into four pools, with the top two teams from each pool set to advance to the quarterfinals. From there, it will be on to the semifinals, and the final for the winners. Teams that miss out on the quarterfinals will participate in the Plate competition.
A strong lineup of teams will be in action, including Navalsig High School and Grey College, who will represent the interests of Free State.
Clapham High School, from Gauteng, will be a leading contender. The school enjoys a partnership with Mamelodi Sundowns and is home to the Brazilians’ junior teams.
Curro Soshanguve is another team to watch. They’re a team that has caught the eye in 2025.
The city of Cape Town will be represented by Camps Bay High, which is in Pool A with Brylin High, from Gqeberha, Stintile Secondary School, from Mpumalanga, and Bloemfontein’s fiercely competitive, Navalsig.
The KwaZulu-Natal representatives include Glenwood High and Hillcrest High. Glenwood, with its established record of excellence, and Hillcrest, after an impressive campaign in the Mancosa KZN High Schools Football Association Second-Term League, will be bear watching, too.
GROUPS
Pool A: Camps Bay High, Brylin High, Stintile Secondary, Navalsig High. Pool B: Clapham High, Northern Academy, Glenwood, Flora Park High. Pool C: Hillcrest High, Meridian Pinehurst, Grey College, Curro Soshanguve. Pool D: Norkem Park High, Barberton High, Mondeor High, Westering High.
Fixtures
Thursday 7 August
Field A
14:00 – Hillcrest High vs Meridian Pinehurst
16:00 – Grey College vs Curro Soshanguve
Field B
14:00 – Camps Bay High vs Stintile Secondary
16:00 – Brylin High vs Navalsig
Field C
14:00 – Clapham High vs Glenwood
16:00 – Northern Academy vs Flora Park
Field D
14:00 – Norkem Park High vs Barberton Park High
16:00 – Westering High vs Mondeor High
Friday 8 August
Field A
09:00 – Barberton High vs Mondeor High
11:00 – Norkem Park High vs Westering High
13:00 – Clapham High vs Flora Park High
15:00 – Glenwood High vs Norkem Academy
Field B
09:00 – Glenwood High vs Flora Park High
11:00 – Clapham High vs Northern Academy
13:00 – Hillcrest High vs Curro Soshanguve
15:00 – Meridian Pinehurst vs Grey College
Field C
09:00 – Stintile Secondary vs Navalsig
11:00 – Camps Bay High vs Brylin High
13:00 – Norkem Park High vs Mondeor High
15:00 – Barberton High vs Westering High
Field D
09:00 – Meridian Pinehurst vs Curro Soshanguve
11:00 – Hillcrest High vs Grey College
13:00 – Camps Bay High vs Navalsig High
15:00 – Stintile Secondary vs Brylin High
Saturday, 9 August
Field: TBC
09:00 – 3rd Pool A vs 4th Pool B
11:00 – 1st Pool A vs 2nd Pool B
13:00 – Winner M25 vs Winner M28
15:00 – Winner M29 vs Winner M32
Field: TBC
09:00 – 4th Pool A vs 3rd Pool B
11:00 – 2nd Pool A vs 1st Pool B
13:00 – Winner M26 vs Winner M27
15:00 – Winner M30 vs Winner M31
Field: TBC
09:00 – 3rd Pool C vs 4th Pool D
11:00 – 1st Pool C vs 2nd Pool D
13:00 – Loser M25 vs Loser M28
15:00 – Loser M29 vs Loser M32
Field: TBC
09:00 – 4th Pool C vs 3rd Pool D
11:00 – 2nd Pool C vs 1st Pool D
13:00 – Loser M26 vs Loser M27
15:00 – Loser M30 vs Loser M31
Sunday, 10 August
Field A
08:00 – Winner M33 vs Winner M34 (9-10)
10:00 – Loser M37 vs Loser M38 (3-4)
12:00 – Winner M37 vs Winner M38 (1-2)
Field B
08:00 – Loser M33 vs Loser M34 (11-12)
10:00 – Winner M39 vs Winner M40 (5-6)
Field C
08:00 – Winner M35 vs Winner M36 (13-14)
10:00 – Loser M39 vs Loser M40 (7-8)
Maritzburg College vice-captain and forward Mazithi Qasha is congratulated by College Headmaster Alan Redfearn on reaching 100 caps for College’s 1st XI. Qasha, then, scored a brace against Alexandra High School in a 3-1 College win. Photo: Maritzburg College on Facebook
A busy programme ramped up for the second week of third-term schoolboy football, with the weekend’s action being highlight by a 100th cap for the Maritzburg College 1st team for sharpshooter Mazithi Qasha.
Mazithi Qasha, the vice-captain and a prolific goal scorer for the Red, Black, and White, rose to the occasion, scoring twice in the first half on Barns Field to give College a 2-0 lead over Alexander High School at the break.
Those goals took Qasha’s tally to a mightily impressive 86 goals across all competitions for College in the past three years.
Though they trailed at half-time, Alex kept working hard, exhibiting determination and resilience, and they were rewarded with a goal that halved Maritzburg College’s lead.
Malachi Momple then delivered a stunning long-range shot to lift College to a 3-1 win in the local derby.
The College 2nd XI also triumphed, winning 2-0.
On Bowden’s Field, Westville Boys’ High comfortably defeated Clifton College 3-0.
Northwood hosted Springs Boys’ High, from Gauteng, but neither team was able to pry open their opponent’s defence and it ended goalless.
Also on Saturday, Kearsney College and Hilton College played to a 1-1 draw on Stott’s Field, in Botha’s Hill, while St Charles College and Michaelhouse, playing in Pietermaritzburg, also drew, with neither team able to beat the opposing goalkeeper.
Earlier in the week, in the Eastern Cape, the B-Block BWFLA High Schools Football League, also referred to as the East London High Schools Football League, made its return to the football field.
The defending champions, Stutterheim High School, started the second leg of the league with a commanding 6-1 victory over West Bank. Selborne College also enjoyed a successful outing, matching Stutterheim’s success with an impressive 6-1 win over George Campbell. De Vos Malan edged out Merrifield College 2-1.
In Makhanda, St Andrew’s College, whose football programme is making strong strides, overwhelmed Kingswood College 6-0 on Friday evening.
Eastern Cape
B-Block BWFLA High Schools Football League/East London High Schools Football League
Selborne 6-1 George Campbell
De Vos Malan 2-1 Merrifield College
Stutterheim High 6-1 West Bank
DVM 2-1 Merrifield
Challenges, Friendlies
St Andrew’s College 6-0 Kingswood College
KwaZulu-Natal
Northwood School 0-0 Springs Boys’ High
Maritzburg College 3-1 Alexandra High School
Westville Boys’ High School 3-0 Clifton College
St Charles College 0-0 Michaelhouse
Kearsney College 1-1 Hilton College
The u17 Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies team on the attack in a Gauteng Women’s Development League match against Edenvale in July. Photo: Katlegothe1sportsphotography on Instagram.
The Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL) continues to grow in popularity and to grow participation, and this year it features three divisions – u13, u15, and u17.
In 2023 and 2024, Mamelodi Sundowns dominated the league. In 2023, though, there was only an u16 division. In 2024, competition took place at u14 and u16 level. Now the action takes place in three age groups.
This season, the Brazilians are being challenged by, among others, Highlands Park, Remember Elite Sport Academy (RESA), and newcomers SAFA Academy, all of whom have caught the eye.
In the u15 division of the GWDL, SAFA Academy currently leads with 45 points after 16 matches, followed closely by Panorama FC, with 40 points from 15 games. Surprisingly, Mamelodi Sundowns finds themselves in an unusual third place with 37 points after 17 matches. They’re not used to looking up at their opposition.
There remains much to play for, and the competition in the u15 division is a testament to the league’s growth. The competitive environment has helped to boost the standard of the game and has also attracted new clubs and sponsors. Playing in the GWDL has also become an aspirational pursuit for young girls, offering a potential pathway to professional football.
In the u17 league, which is essentially the first team competition of the GWDL, unpredictable and shocking results have been produced since the beginning of the season. While Sundowns currently tops the table, they’re not in a comfortable position.
The heavy defeat was a tough blow for JVW, who had delivered strong performances last season, which included wins over Sundowns on several occasions during league matches and in other cup competitions. Sundowns were unstoppable on Sunday, however.
SAFA Academy, Sundowns’ closest challengers, incredibly, enjoyed a bigger goal difference than the league leaders, slotting a staggering 13 goals against the University of Pretoria (Tuks) without conceding. Tuks had no answer to SAFA’s Academy’s relentless, sharp attacks.
The newcomers have made significant waves in their inaugural season in the GWDL, causing disruption to the established order. They’ve proven themselves capable of beating any opponent, with their list of victories including wins over Mamelodi Sundowns and Highlands Park, both of whom are contenders for the league title.
Highlands Park’s ambitions were dealt a blow on Sunday, however, when they went down to a 0-2 defeat to Tornado Academy Ladies. After the loss, Highlands Park lies third in the standings with 35 points, but they have fallen off the pace in the title race in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, RESA scored a comfortable 4-0 win over Dinoko Rondebult. That win leaves them only three points behind Highlands Park, in fourth place.
Kempton Park also won, scoring a 2-0 victory over Kenneth FC.
This week, the league’s teams are preparing for the Women’s Day GWDL Festival, which has rapidly become a beloved event among fans. The festival brings together all of the GWDL’s first teams for a one-day showdown, held in honour of Women’s Day.
This year, it will be held on Sunday, 10 August, at Curro Hazeldean, one day after the public holiday. Refilwe FC, one of the fastest-growing teams in Gauteng and South Africa, will host the event.
Photo: Mondli Dube.
The festival will be broadcast by SuperSport Schools on DStv Channel 216 and on the SuperSport Schools app. SuperSport Schools Plus will also cover the action.
Last season’s the Women’s Day Festival was played at President Park in Vereeniging, the home of RESA, whose supporters brought tremendous energy to the stands. After a very successful event, expectations are high for another entertaining day of competitive football.
While the current set-up of the league has teams playing each other home and away, it has somewhat detracted from the former format, which featured all the sides playing at one venue, which made for a vibrant atmosphere, with parents, families, and supporters surrounding the field. Sunday’s festival will, once again, deliver that cherished atmosphere.
The main event will be a mouthwatering showdown between SAFA Academy and Sundowns. Earlier in the season, in a league clash, SAFA Academy defeated Sundowns. On Sunday, ‘Downs will have a chance to avenge that loss and extend their lead to four points. A win for SAFA Academy would reduce the gap to a single point, and they have two games in hand.
Another eagerly awaited match pits the teams in third and fourth places on the log, Highlands Park and RESA, against one another. JVW will be challenged by Kempton Park, while Panorama takes on Tuks, who will be eager to wipe away the bitter taste of their last outing against SAFA Academy.
The festivities will kick off with Hellenic Falcons facing Dinoko Rondebult. In the remaining fixtures, Tornado Academy Ladies go up against Kenneth FC, and the home team, Refilwe FC will take on the challenge of Edenvale FC.
RESULTS
Sunday 3 August
Tornado Academy Ladies 2-0 Highlands Park
Kempton Park FC 2-0 Kenneth FC
Mamelodi Sundowns 12-1 JVW FC – Easterns
Panorama FC 4-0 Hellenic Falcons FC
RESA 4-1 Dinoko Rondebult
SAFA Academy 13-0 University of Pretoria (Tuks)
FIXTURES
Sunday, 10 August: Women’s Day GWDL Festival
Curro Hazeldean Main Stadium
09:00 – Hellenic Falcons vs Dinoko Rondebult
10:00 – Tornado vs Kenneth
11:00 – Edenvale vs Refilwe FC
12:00 – Highlands Park vs RESA
13:00 – Panorama vs Tuks
14:00 – Kempton Park vs JVW
15:00 – SAFA Academy vs Mamelodi Sundowns
The proud winners of the girls’ competition at the Riverwood aQuellé Soccer Festival, St Anne’s Diocesan College. Photo: St Anne’s Diocesan College on Facebook.
On Saturday, Riverwood College hosted the Riverwood aQuellé Soccer Festival in Pietermaritzburg. Played over a single day, the event brought together schools from across KwaZulu-Natal to compete in the boys’ and girls’ competition.
At the end of a competitive day, Umthoqotho High School claimed the boys’ title, while St Anne’s Diocesan College won the girls’ competition.
In the boys’ event, Riverwood College topped Group A after a 1-0 win over Grace College and a 4-1 success against Treverton College. Those wins enabled the hosts to advance to the semifinals, where they faced Domino Servite High School. After a tight clash, Riverwood moved forward to the title game on the back of a 1-0 victory.
The home team’s dream run was brought to an end in the final by Umthoqotho High School. After regulation time, the sides were tied at 1-1. Then, a nail-biting penalty shootout ensued. Sudden death penalties were needed to settle it, and Umthoqotho edged it 6-5.
Umthoqotho High endured a shaky start to their winning campaign, finishing second to Linpark High in Group C. They, however, qualified for the semifinals as the best of the three runners-up.
They weren’t beaten in group play. Rather, they drew goalless with Linpark. Ironically, the way matters unfolded, the semifinals threw the same sides together. This time, Umthoqotho triumphed 1-0 to reach the final.
The girls’ final also went to a penalty shootout, featuring St Anne’s and Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High. They were deadlocked at 0-0 after regulation time, but St Anne’s took victory 5-4 from the spot.
The Hilton school impressed during the group stage of play, topping Pool B with a clean record. Then, in the semifinals, they outplayed St John’s DSG, registering a comfortable 4-1 victory.
Girls’ High booked their place in the title decider with a 2-0 win over Howick High in the semifinals.
RESULTS
Boys
Group A
Riverwood College 1-0 Grace College
Treverton College 0-0 Grace College
Riverwood College 4-1 Treverton College
Group B
Domino Servite 2-1 Etham College
Domino Servite 2-1 St Nicholas
St Nicholas 2-1 Etham College
Group C
Linpark 4-3 Howick High
Umthoqotho High 0-0 Linpark High
Umthoqotho High 2-1 Howick High
Semifinals
Riverwood College 1-0 Domino Servite
Umthoqotho High 1-0 Linpark
Final
Umthoqotho High School (6) 1-1 (5) Riverwood College
Girls
Group A
St John’s DSG 2-0 Riverwood College
St John’s DSG 1-1 Epworth School
Epworth School 1-0 Riverwood College
Group B
St Anne’s 2-0 Linpark
St Nicholas 0-0 Linpark
St Anne’s 8-0 St Nicholas
Group C
Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High 3-0 The Wykeham Collegiate
Howick High 1-0 The Wykeham Collegiate
Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High 1-1 Howick High
Semifinals
St Anne’s 4-1 St John’s DSG
Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High 2-0 Howick High
Final
St Anne’s (5) 0-0 (4) Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High
St Andrew’s College scored the only goal of the game to defeat Victoria Park High 1-0, in Makhanda, on Saturday. Photo: St Andrew’s College on Facebook.
The third term of 2025 has begun and with that the football season has fully kicked into gear with great enthusiasm.
SuperSport Schools Plus reports on some of the football matches that took place during the week and on the weekend, featuring, among others, Paul Roos Gimnasium (PRG), Urban Academy, Rondebosch Boys’ High, Jeppe High School for Boys, Maritzburg College, Hillcrest High, and Westville Boys’ High School.
Urban Academy, from Gqeberha, continues to ascend and has proven their pedigree competing against the most formidable schools in the country.
During the week, they took on Lawson Brown High and recorded a comfortable 4-0 victory, with goals from Oyisa Ngeni, Qhamani Gubevu, Tashreeq Rademeyer, and Okuhle Khemese.
During the mid-year holiday, Urban Academy went through the Kearsney Soccer Tournament without conceding a goal, but they were beaten 3-1 on penalties in the final after a goalless draw with the defending champion, Pinetown Boys’ High, the second time the teams had finished in a 0-0 stalemate in the event.
Pinetown also won the Kloof High Football Tournament, which underlined the size of the challenge that Urban Academy faced, but also reflected their class.
Also on Thursday, another Gqeberha side,Westview School, delivered an exceptional performance to defeat Cape Recife High 4-0.
In Gauteng, Pretoria Boys High showcased their skill in a 2-1 win over Princethorpe College, a touring team from the United Kingdom.
On Saturday, Rondebosch Boys’ High secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Paul Roos in the Western Cape, while Hudson High defeated Queen’s College 2-1 in the Eastern Cape.
In KwaZulu-Natal, Northwood School, after a disappointing run in the Mancosa KwaZulu-Natal High Schools Football Association (KZNHSFA) Coastal A-League, Second Term League, which almost led to their relegation, are finding their form. They’ve played far better football in recent times, including at the end of the second term.
Their upward trend resumed on Saturday when they scored a surprisingly commanding 6-1 victory over a decent Clifton College outfit. Northwood, perhaps, has turned the corner.
Jeppe High School for Boys 1sy XI. Photo: Supplied.
On Saturday, Westville Boys’ High, the winners of the 2025 KZNHSFA Coastal A-League and the Kloof High School Football Tournament’s Shield winners, picked up a tight 2-1 victory over Hilton College, with Nkanyezi Mkhungo and Asanele Shange scoring for the winners.
The KZNHSFA Inland A-League champion, Maritzburg College who also lifted the Plate at the Kloof High Football Tournament, made a good start to their third term’s fixtures with a convincing 3-0 win over Hillcrest High at Hillcrest High.
Mazithi Qasha, Sphelele Sibiya and ThubelihleMyeni were on target for the Red, Black and White.
While the 1st XI was outstanding, College’s other primary teams – u14A, u15A, u16A, and 2nd XI – were all held to draws.
Hillcrest High enjoyed an outstanding run during the second term’s KZNHSFA Coastal A-League and made it to the final, where they were beaten in a penalty shootout by Westville Boys’ High. Since then, though, their fortunes have slipped, and they didn’t enjoy a good showing at the Kloof High Football Tournament.
Hillcrest, though, has a young team that has demonstrated resilience and determination this season, and, given the performances they have previously produced, they should be able to regain their mojo.
They’ll be in action at the finals of Curro Halala Cup, which take place at HeronBridge College on 7 August. There, they’ll face, among others, Grey College, Clapham High School, Glenwood High, who are all vying for the prestigious title, with a prize of R100,000 at stake.
Playing at home, St John’s College was pushed hard by CBC Boksburg, but they came through with a 1-o victory in the end. Photo: St John’s College on Facebook.
On Saturday, in Johannesburg, St John’s College hosted Christian Brothers’ College Boksburg (CBC). In a tight 1st XI game, St John’s secured a narrow 1-0 victory.
Durban High School (DHS) travelled up to Johannesburg for a showdown with Jeppe on Saturday as the schools engaged in rugby, hockey, squash, chess, golf, and football competition.
Jeppe’s strong season continued as they hung a 3-1 defeat on the Horseflies.
In Makhanda, St Andrew’s College played to a 1-1 draw with Victoria Park High.
Results
Thursday 24 July
Urban Academy 4-0 Lawson Brown High
Westview School 4-0 Cape Recife High
Pretoria Boys High School 2-1 Princethorpe College
Saturday 26 July
Rondebosch Boys’ High 2-1 Paul Roos Gimnasium
Hudson Park 2-1 Queen’s College
Westville Boys’ High 2-1 Hilton College
Northwood 6-1 Clifton College
Maritzburg College 3-0 Hillcrest High
St Andrew’s College 1-1 Victoria Park High
Jeppe 3-1 DHS
St John’s College 1-0 CBC Boksburg
Ray Allen, a two-time NBA champion with the Miami Heat in 2013 and the Boston Celtics in 2008, as well as an Olympic gold medallist with Team USA in 2000, received a Soweto Basketball Academy jersey during the Jr. NBA Clinic held at the Klipspruit Sports Center in Soweto, Johannesburg. Photo. NBA Africa
On his visit to Africa, two-time NBA champion, Ray Allen, also a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, who was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, made a brief stop at the Klipspruit Sports Centre, in Soweto, on Saturday.
There, the three-point sharpshooter, participated in a Junior NBA Clinic that attracted over 300 children, aged u14.
To commemorate his 50th birthday, Allen has been on an extraordinary trip to various countries, including Rwanda, which has ploughed significant resources into basketball. While there, he enjoyed a remarkable mountain gorilla-tracking experience with his family in the Volcanoes National Park.
In South Africa, he began his journey with a family safari, discovering breathtaking landscapes, observing wildlife, and cherishing quality moments in nature.
Addressing the media, Allen said that when he first landed in Africa there was a sense of unity and camaraderie that he felt on the continent. “You see the togetherness, that unity, people growing and trying to encourage each other. It’s been extremely peaceful everywhere I’ve gone,” he commented.
He further characterised the visit as an educational experience from a cultural perspective, emphasising the importance of being immersed in the environment to gain a deeper understanding of the music and food, which are all interconnected.
At the Klipspruit Sports Centre, Allen’s presence induced broad smiles from the young players and an uplifting experience as Allen, his children, and prominent figures in South African basketball – including Mthokozisi Madonda, who oversees the NBA’s social initiatives across the continent, and Monwabisi Dlamini, the founder of Soweto Basketball Academy – led and guided the clinic.
The young participants dribbled and practiced their shots, filled with excitement as they lapped up the opportunity to work with an NBA great.
The atmosphere was filled with joyful smiles as NBA legend Ray Allen embraced the younger generation at the Jr. NBA Clinic in Soweto. Photo. NBA Africa
In a conversation with the media, Allen said he consistently considers the potential of children, focusing on their capabilities rather than their appearances. He believes that if people are prepared to invest in the youth, they can accomplish remarkable things in their lives.
It is the duty of community members, he emphasised, to offer resources to the youth, to enable them to lead fulfilling lives. This, he noted, not only benefits the community but also positively impacts future generations, as it fosters a cycle of giving back and supporting the community.
“For me to be here, it also encourages me,” he added, “just knowing that when I walk into a room, kids are excited. These kids have never seen me play before but just seeing me provides inspiration and excitement for them.”
These moments, Allen said, will remain with him throughout his life, understanding that the contributions he made during his career continue to hold significance for many individuals.
“I try to use it to the best of my ability to grow the game of basketball and to inspire young people,” he explained.
Having travelled the world, thanks to basketball, Allen told SuperSport Schools Plus that the sport transcends mere recreation. He stated that when one contemplates the game of basketball, it encompasses business, education, community, resources, and even real estate.
“When you talk about building facilities, arenas, cities that give people jobs, and opportunity, it brings tourism to your city.
“I’ve seen countless cities in America that didn’t have sports teams that built and achieved sports significance, how it helped the economy, how it helped the people, and how it inspired young people to be inspired to be more and see more.”
Basketball has transcended the act of dribbling, he said. It has served as a unifying force among individuals, as reflected in his perspective, testimonies, and experiences related to the sport.
Watching individuals unite in support of their team is a truly beautiful experience, and the emotion when a team is victorious or plays a great game leads to collective celebrations, he concluded.
City Lads FC and Chippa United claimed the 2025 provincial Engen Knockout Challenge titles in the Eastern Cape. Photo. Supplied
Chippa United and City Lads FC were crowned the champions of the Eastern Cape Engen Knockout Challenge after securing victories in their respective finals in the boys’ and ladies’ divisions at Dale College, in Qonce, on Sunday.
Both teams, the Chilli Boys and the City Lads FC, will represent the province, the Home of the Legends, at the national Engen Champs of Champs in October.
There, the winners from nine provinces will compete for the title of the best in South Africa.
Boys’ Competition
The Chilli Boys as provincial champions following their victory in the Eastern Cape’s Engen Knockout Challenge. Photo. Supplied.
In the boys’ tournament, an u18 competition, the eventual champions, Chippa United, were extended by Highbury, but a narrow 1-0 win put them through to the semi-finals.
With a place in the final on the line, they overcame a determined and highly motivated Maria Louw High School, winning 2-0. Maria Louw had reached the semis after a 2-0 defeat of Real Aces.
In other quarterfinal matches, United Professionals shared a goalless draw with Joza Stars. That sent their match to a penalty shootout and United Professionals advanced, winning 4-1 from the spot.
Red Lions handed Malcomess SS a 2-0 loss to move on to the semi-finals, where they faced United Professionals. After a hard-fought contest, Red Lions booked their ticket to the final with a 1-0 win.
In the title game, it was Chippa United, who were absent in 2024, who came out on top, winning 2-0.
Ladies’ Competition
Dethroned as champions in 2024, City Lads FC reclaimed the Engen Knockout Challenge title they had previously won in 2023. Photo. Supplied
In the ladies’ quarterfinals – the teams are u20 outfits – City Lads overpowered Blackpool 10-3.
Nav Galaxy also delivered an impressive performance, winning 3-0 against Bay Stars, and Ebhayi matched that result in a win over Phoenix Birds.
There were no goals in regulation time between Walter Sisulu University Buffalo City Campus (WSU BCC) and Caledonian, but WSU BCC advanced 5-4 on penalties.
In the semifinals, City Lads maintained their dominant form, cruising to a 6-0 win over WSU BCC, while Nav Galaxy secured a 2-0 win against Ebhayi to reach the final.
City Lads FC ‘s free scoring ways were halted by the defending champions, Nav Galaxy Ladies, in the title decider, but they, nonetheless, scored once, which was enough to lift the title that they had previously won in 2023.
It was a tactical battle from beginning to end, with City Lads’ discipline and determination making the crucial difference.
Results
Boys’ Quarterfinals
Chippa United 1-0 Highbury
Red Lions 2-0 Malcomess SS
Maria Louw 2-0 Real Aces
United Professionals (4) 0-0 (1) Joza Stars
Boys’ Semifinals
Chippa United 1-0 Maria Louw
Red Lions 1-0 United Professionals
Final
Chippa United 2-0 Red Lions
Ladies’ Quarterfinals
City Lads 10-3 Blackpool
Nav Galaxy 3-0 Bay Stars
WSU BCC (5) 0-0 (4) Caledonian
Ebhayi 3-0 Phoenix Birds
Ladies’ Semifinals
City Lads 6-0 WSU BCC
Nav Galaxy 2-0 Ebhayi
Final
City Lads 1-0 Nav Galaxy
Engen Knockout Individual Awards
Boys
Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Andiphile Ngoqo – UTD Professionals
Defender of the Tournament: Athabile Frans – Maria Louw
Midfielder of the Tournament: Josh Drachoender – Chippa United
Top Goalscorer: Qhamani Gubevu – Chippa United
Striker of the Tournament: Zukanye Mdila – Red Lions
Coach of the Tournament: Masexole Mathyu – Red Lions
Player of the Tournament: Josh Drachoender – Red Lions
Fairplay Team of the Tournament: Real Aces
Referee of the Tournament – Zizipho Valashya
Ladies
Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Mlibokazi Sikhusa – WSU
Defender of the Tournament: Sikelelioa Mhlanga – City Lads
Midfielder of the Tournament: Agcobile Manengela – City Lads
Top Goalscorer: Carlyn Ellie – Caledonian FC
Striker of the Tournament: Endinako Njengele – Nav Galaxy Ladies
Coach of the Tournament: Lumka Mjana – City Lads
Player of the Tournament: Sikelelioa Mhlanga – City Lads
Fair play Team of the Tournament: Bay Stars Ladies
Renowned for delivering exhilarating football action, the 21st annual St David’s Marist Inanda Challenge is poised to captivate spectators from Friday, 8 August, to Sunday, 10 August.
