Tsakani – An exciting semi-final clash at the Owl City Winter Tournament 2026 between Amen Foundation and CIA on August 16 kept spectators entertained as both sides battled for a place in the final.

The game began at a slow pace at the Plus Ground, with both teams attempting to take control and settle into the match.

CIA coach Ntsizwa Mlambo said his team struggled to find its shape after conceding an early goal.

“The first half was not bad. We conceded early and were shaky in the midfield. We are still developing as a team. Movement was bad and we did not have shape,” said Mlambo.

Mlambo said the team made tactical changes in the second half to create more opportunities.

“We changed the striker, used good players and created a lot of chances. We played a lot behind them and could not create chances,” he added.

Despite the disappointment, Mlambo said the team would use the experience to correct its mistakes and improve during training.

“It feels bad. We had plans. Throughout the tournament, we were chasing. We did not conclude any game on a good note,” Mlambo said.

“We will fix our mistakes during practice. Our way forward is to win our next game.”

Mlambo added that the team remained focused on improving its movement and finishing, particularly from set pieces.

“The team we will be playing against is very strong. We are focused on the movement. We score more with set pieces. We need to create more chances to convert,” he said.

The game concluded 1-0, a win for Amen. Amen coach Anold Maluke praised his players for their disciplined performance.

Maluke said his team executed its game plan well in the first half, both defensively and offensively, to prevent their opponents from scoring.

“In the first half, we played well. We defended and attacked well. We blocked all avenues of the other team getting a goal,” he cited.

“I would rate the first half 63%. We came with a plan from practice and scored one goal and that is how the game ended,” said Mlaluke.

He said the team made tactical adjustments in the second half to protect its lead, including strengthening its defence.

“I spoke to my team and motivated them to defend the game. I changed the positions and added to the defence from three players to four.

“We blocked every chance they could come up with. Opponents couldn’t reach corner kicks, not even the pole,” he mentioned.

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Mlaluke said he was pleased with the result and credited the team’s discipline and commitment during training.

He also praised the quality of opposition they had faced throughout the tournament, saying the experience had helped the team grow.

“We have played big teams within Tsakani in this top 16 tournament. Thanks to CIA for the tournament.

“We appreciate the participating teams. We plead for development teams to have tournaments,” Maluke said.

Quarter-final results:

• Amen Foundation FC 1 – 0 Chillie Boyz
• Elco Santos FC 3 – 5 Amazababa FC
• CIA FC 2 – 1 Peace Lovers FC
• TEC United FC 2 – 1 Real Heroes FC

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