Barcelona 2022 crowned victors of Mayoral Cup
The final was played at a high tempo from the first whistle, with both teams trying to exert dominance, but Barcelona 2022 Academy soon took control of the match with some exhilarating touches.
Barcelona 2022 Football Academy have been crowned the inaugural Umjindi Mayoral Development Cup u/19 male
soccer team after they defeated Verulam Swallows 2-0.
The clash took place at the Emjindini Stadium on Monday afternoon.
“We are the champions” rang out as the ambitious players hoisted the winners’ trophy, joined by enthusiastic fellow players and supporters.
Barcelona 2022 Academy qualified for the final after beating semi-finalist Golden United 4-3 on penalties while Swallows also beat Status FC 5-4 on penalties.
The final was played at a high tempo from the first whistle, with both teams trying to exert dominance, but Barcelona 2022 Academy soon took control of the match with some exhilarating touches.
Sensing danger, Swallows turned it up and matched their opponents with pace, skill and determination.
Barcelona 2022 Academy’s dominance prevailed again, resulting in their first goal at the quarter mark by Wandile Gwebu, who had an easy tap-in after a fumble by Swallows keeper.
The match went into recess 1-0 in favour of Barcelona 2022.
At the resumption of the second half, Swallows tried to claw back. However, their opponents were at the top of their game, scoring a second goal through Lankie Khoza. The game ended 2-0 in favour of Barcelona 2022.
“This was a dream come true for the boys.
“The effort behind Barcelona 2022 Academy is to create a football development platform that will afford young and upcoming players an opportunity to nurture and enhance their skills.
“The intention is to inspire them to become professional players,” said Kalawa Msithini, Barcelona 2022 Academy co-coach. They will now represent Umjindi against other municipalities from the Ehlanzeni region.
Lucky Thwala, Umjindi sports committee secretary said they were pleased by the progress of the tournament.
“This is the first year of the tournament and next year we can expect a bigger and better event.
“My gratitude goes out to all who made this happen and most importantly to the players who came here to showcase their skills,” said Thwala.
