Giyani Atletico eyes Mayor’s Cup finals with ‘Big Mama’ in form

LIMPOPO – Giyani Atletico, the formidable team from Ward 13 in Section-F, will be leaning heavily on the prowess of their star player for their upcoming Mayor’s Cup semi-final clash. The team’s hopes are pinned on their top goal scorer, famously known by the nickname “Big Mama,” or “Biggy” for short, as they prepare to face Shawela Ladies from Ward 22.

Biggy has been in fine form throughout the tournament, consistently finding the back of the net and proving to be a game-changer for her team.

Her presence on the field is expected to give Atletico a strong advantage as they look to book a spot in the finals.

“She’s currently in great form, showing consistency and determination on the field. We believe her performance will give us a much-needed edge in our next soccer match, especially because this game is crucial for us,” explained their coach, Hlawu Ndlovu.

“We really need to capitalise on her momentum, and the entire team is hopeful that her contribution will help turn the match in our favour,” he continued, adding that the team was training very hard to ensure that they do not lose their semi-finals.

The much-anticipated clash between the two women’s teams had been scheduled for last weekend, but like other fixtures, it was suspended after the municipality abruptly decided to halt all Mayor’s Cup matches. No official explanation has yet been provided for the decision, leaving players and fans in suspense.

The rescheduled match is expected to draw a large crowd, with supporters eager to see whether Giyani Atletico can ride on Biggy’s scoring prowess to overcome the determined Shawela Ladies. In the men’s category, Ward 12 from Homu 14C will face Ward 22 from Shawela village in their own semi-final showdown.

Both teams are known to have large followings, and their encounters are expected to draw massive crowds. Meanwhile, the municipality has not yet decided on a venue for the finals after plans to use Giyani Stadium failed to materialise.

The stadium is currently undergoing upgrades and was initially expected to be completed by 16 August, the date on which the Mayor’s Cup finals were scheduled to be held. However, with the renovations still incomplete, the municipality is now forced to look for an alternative venue.

The challenge is that all possible sports centres around Giyani can only accommodate about 2,000 people on their grandstands, making it unlikely that the finals will be moved elsewhere. Up to now, all matches have been played on the outer practice pitch of Giyani stadium, and indications are that this is where the finals are also likely to take place.

“It is not yet clear whether we are going to use the stadium or not. We will deliberate on the matter next week,” said municipal spokesperson Steve Mavunda when asked about an alternative venue to host the Mayor’s Cup finals.