This year’s cup was won by Team Daniel from Daniel Rababalela, the first-ever tournament victory for the team after more than ten years. They received R14 000, a cup, a new soccer kit, and medals. R5 000 of the winning amount is a voucher for school shoes for learners from the winning village. Malwandla Mahundla, Team Daniel’s captain, said he is still in disbelief that they actually won.

“I’m so happy for the boys because we were the least favourite to win the tournament. We are a small village but we have dedicated young men with a winning mentality. I’m so happy that I led our village to victory, it was not easy but not impossible at the same time,” he said. One of the coaches, Brightman Mathebula, said the team made history.

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“It is exciting when people exceed your expectations. After the first match, I was interviewed by Perfect Radio, and during the interview, I said that we would definitely take the cup after winning the first game.” He said he was under a lot of pressure from villagers to make sure that they win. “They accept nothing but the best,” said Mathebula. He said he likes that the tournament gives back to the community. The R5 000 voucher will go to Ndzhovela Primary to supply disadvantaged children with school uniforms.

“It feels great to give back to the place I grew up, the boys did an excellent job.” He hopes to one day coach a big soccer name. “I coached my church team during an inter-church sports day recently and we also won. Daniel Rababalela villagers are very happy with the win. “We are always behind them and have supported the team since the start. We even have Team Daniel T-shirts and will continue to give them all the support they need,” said Twanano Mongwe, a resident.