Bambanani Sports FC crowned u/13 champions
Bambanani Sports FC wins the Mkufu-kufu u/13 title and celebrates further national success at the Johan Cruyff 6-a-side tournament.
LIMPOPO – Bambanani Sports FC has been crowned champions of the Mkufu-kufu u/13 soccer tournament, held at Selwane Matjie Stadium on November 15.
The highly competitive top 4 tournament drew young football talent from across the area, delivering thrilling matches and exceptional performances.
Penalty drama decides champions
The opening match saw Juventus and Selwane Seven Stars locked in a goalless draw, forcing the result to be decided through penalties. Juventus edged through with a 5-4 win. In the second semi-final, Bambanani secured their place in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Selwane Sundowns.
The final was an intense showdown between Bambanani and Juventus, ending 1-1 at full-time.
The match went to penalties, where Bambanani triumphed 7-6 to claim the 2025 title.
The champions walked away with a trophy, medals, and a cash prize of R600.
Team members earn top honours
Bambanani coach Tsala Livet Baloyi was honoured as the best coach of the tournament, while talented midfielder Travis Mokgalabone walked away with as the best player.
Baloyi said the competition was far from easy.
“It was not an easy tournament, but our boys managed to win all the games. Teamwork and good communication helped us a lot. Training hard and working together play a big role in the children’s development. I feel glad and motivated, and I will continue teaching kids football,” he said.
In addition to their local triumph, Bambanani Sports FC also made headlines at national level after winning the first Johan Cruyff Foundation 6-a-side International Tournament, held on October 9-10.
The top 8 tournament was hosted by African Tshikumi Elandsdoorn.
Bambanani formed a combined team from clubs participating in the Bambanani Soccer League to represent Ba-Phalaborwa at the tournament.
Their first match kicked off with a 5-1 victory over Rhizer. In their second match, they drew 2-2 against Vredrenbrun but won 5-4 on penalties.
The finals saw Bambanani defeating the hosts, Elandsdoorn, 3-2, securing the national championship title.
Goalkeeper Omnishince Matimu Mathebula was awarded best goalkeeper of the tournament, while young star Travis Mokgalabone once again shone brightest, earning the best national captain award.
Community support praised
Baloyi expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the Phalaborwa community.
“I feel truly valued by the communities of Phalaborwa. Parents placed their trust in us to take their children to the national tournament. I am grateful to the Bambanani office and the team for allowing me to lead from January until October. We trained every Friday, and together we brought home the trophy,” he said.
Baloyi also thanked Bambanani chairperson, Pinky Khosa, for her continued support.
Bambanani is a community development organisation that also formed a football club.
On December 5, Bambanani will host a sports awards ceremony at the Selwane Tribal Hall from 09:00-15:00, where outstanding young athletes and coaches will be honoured for their contributions and achievements throughout the year.
