Meridian Northern Academy has etched its name into South African schools’ football history, lifting the first Curro Halala Cup after an unforgettable 8–7 penalty shootout victory over Norkem Park High School.

The final, held at HeronBridge College Fourways, brought the curtain down on a four-day football spectacle that began with 64 teams from across the country and ended with Limpopo’s Northern Academy clutching the coveted trophy and the R100 000 grand prize.

Read more: SA’s future football stars face off at the Curro Halala Cup finals

What began as an ambitious vision to unite South Africa’s top school teams, turned into a festival of skill, grit, and sportsmanship. Sixteen elite sides reached the finals weekend, thrilling spectators with dramatic goals, last-minute turnarounds, and nerve-shredding finishes.

“This truly was South Africa’s tournament,” said Cobus Loubser, CEO of Curro Holdings. “The nearly 300 boys who participated in this finals weekend, the hundreds who played in the earlier rounds, and the thousands of supporters, represent the future of South Africa: Resilient, ambitious, hardworking, and hopeful.”

The championship decider was a disciplined, high-quality clash between Limpopo and Gauteng’s finest. Locked at 1–1 draw after full time, the title was decided from the spot. Both teams delivered a masterclass in composure until Northern Academy finally prevailed, sparking wild celebrations.

The Golden Boot Award went to Omolemo Sekowe, from Clapham High School, for his lethal finishing. Northern Academy’s Manaka Kelelo claimed the Golden Glove for his commanding presence in goal, while his teammate, Katlego Rhenoster, was named Best Player of the Tournament. The Halala Cup Spirit Award went to Hillcrest High School for their exceptional sportsmanship.

“It’s been such an amazing journey,” said Rhenoster. “Playing with my team, representing our province, and my school, it’s just been so cool. I’m super grateful. I’ve learned so much from every match.”

For coach Hendrick Mukwevho, the win was the culmination of months of dedication. “I’m incredibly proud of my boys. Norkem Park gave us one of the toughest games we’ve played. From the very beginning, we’ve felt God’s hand guiding us. Now, we take this momentum back into our local league, where we’re still top of the log.”

The Curro Halala Cup brought together teams from every province, from Western Cape’s rugby heartlands to Limpopo’s football-mad communities, each leaving their mark on this new chapter of South African school sport.

“The Halala Cup is a platform for young talent to develop and shine,” added Loubser. “Football, and life, are not about one or two-star players. You win as a team. You cannot score a goal without someone else passing the ball to you.”

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