Thrills, upsets and goals galore as Halala Cup reaches final stage
Day three at HeronBridge College delivered high-intensity clashes, dramatic comebacks and penalty shootout drama as teams booked their spots in the Cup and Plate finals.
Day three of the Curro Halala Cup at HeronBridge College kept fans on the edge of their seats as 16 schools went head-to-head in high-intensity clashes.
With every match packed with goals, drama and surprise turnarounds, the tournament delivered on its promise of top-class school football.
By the end of the day, the final eight schools had secured their spots in the Cup play-offs, while the remaining teams prepared to battle it out for Plate honours. The tournament’s unique format ensures every team plays six matches, with final rankings from first to sixteenth, meaning no one leaves empty-handed.
Cup Division drama
The Cup Division quarterfinals set the tone early. Norkem High struck first against Curro Soshanguve, but Soshanguve hit back late to force a 1-1 draw. The shootout was tense, but Norkem held their nerve to win 3-1.
Meridian Pinehurst were clinical in front of goal, beating Westering High 4-1, while Grey College punished Mondeor’s missed chances with four late goals in a 4-1 victory.
Semi-final action brought even more drama. Hillcrest High’s disciplined approach earned them a 3-2 win over Glenwood High, while Navalsig High stunned provincial giants Clapham High in a famous upset. Norkem Park and Northern Academy also booked their spots in the Cup final with gritty penalty shootout wins.
Plate Division power plays
The Plate Division saw Flora Park High come out firing after a delayed start, powering past Westering 6-1.
Mondeor bounced back from earlier disappointment with a confident 5-1 victory over Camps Bay, showcasing relentless attacking flair.
All eyes on the R100 000 prize
With the grand finale set, the stakes couldn’t be higher. From the Western Cape to Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal to the Eastern Cape, every province has made its mark.
Alongside the championship title, individual honours such as the Golden Glove, Golden Boot and the Halala Cup Spirit Award will also be up for grabs.
Supporters can expect nothing less than full-throttle football as teams fight for glory, and the coveted R100 000 prize.
