MJM Hotspurs crowned Mopani District Nedbank Cup champions

PHALABORWA – MJM Hotspurs FC have been crowned champions of the Mopani District Nedbank Cup for the 2025/26 season after an impressive 2-0 victory over Grand Vitara FC in the finals. The knockout stages, hosted by Safa Mopani, took place on Saturday, November 1, at Lulekani Stadium.

Hotspurs arrived in the final full of confidence after defeating Ramaroka Super Aces 4-0 in the semi-finals and carried that momentum into the championship match. Brutas Setagane opened the scoring before Pride Maholobela sealed the win, securing the club’s place as district champions.

With this victory, MJM Hotspurs are set to represent the Mopani district at the District Champion of Champions League in Thohoyandou on Saturday, November 15, as they continue their journey toward competing in the national Nedbank Cup stages.

MJM’s team manager, Lifalezwe Cibi, expressed pride in the team’s achievement and the importance of the win for the community. “We are very proud to be the regional champions, representing the Ba-Phalaborwa communities and all football fans who support us. This win has given our players and supporters a lot of confidence and has shown how important league games are, as they create opportunities for growth and success in football,” he said.

However, Cibi also highlighted some challenges faced during the match, including teams failing to adhere to football regulations and difficulties transporting supporters to away fixtures. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about the team’s future.

“Our goal is to overcome the other regional champions and face Tshakuma in the next stage. We are confident in our ability to reach the last 32 of the competition and to proudly put Phalaborwa on the national football map,” he added.

The Ba-Phalaborwa Local Football Association (BALFA) congratulated Hotspurs on their triumph and wished them success in Thohoyandou, expressing confidence that the team will continue to fly the Mopani flag high.