PHALABORWA – Baduzah Celtics secured their place in the last 32 of the Top 64 Baduzah Tournament after delivering an emphatic 5-1 victory over Mukondeleli FC at Phalaborwa Celtics Sports Ground on Sunday, November 1.

The Celtics made their intentions clear early in the match, opening the scoring in the ninth minute.

However, Mukondeleli FC responded with an equaliser in the 35th minute, briefly bringing the contest level.

Baduzah quickly regained the lead two minutes later before extending their advantage with another goal in the 39th minute. They continued their attacking display, adding a fourth goal in the 45th minute to take a comfortable lead into half-time.

The team maintained its dominance after the break, scoring its fifth goal in the 63rd minute to seal a convincing victory and secure progression to the next stage of the competition.

Coach wanted more goals

Coach Mashoto Malesa described the performance as good but said his players could have scored more goals had they converted their chances.

“It was a good game, but five goals were not enough. We wanted to score more than 10 goals, but our players kept missing opportunities. However, that is part of football. Our comeback will be very big,” said Malesa.

He added that his team is ready to face any opponent in the tournament.

Other results and upcoming fixtures

In another Sunday fixture, Jusca United edged Maseke Superstars 1-0, while MJM Hotspurs delivered one of the tournament’s biggest results with a 9-0 victory over PMC Concentrator FC.

Saturday’s matches also produced exciting encounters, with All Nations defeating Bakone FC 3-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time. Mpumalanga Aces secured a 3-1 victory over Majeje Juventus, while Jazi Na Bolo edged Lulekani Arsenal 7-6 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

The tournament continues this weekend with more teams battling to advance to the next stage.

On Saturday, November 7, Selwane Hungry Lions will face Makhaferi FC, Selwane 7 Stars will take on K14 Falcons, while Selwane Chillo Stars will meet Nkoveni Young Boys.

Sunday’s fixtures on November 8 will see Selwane Junior Chiefs take on Black Eagles, Mabele Academy face Durban City FC, and Selwane White Vultures go up against Riverside FC.