More teams book their places to the quarters of the Ikeja Lerato Lamola Winter Games, but Mambas fall aside
Favourites, AT Mambas, have been eliminated from the Ikeja Lerato Lamola Winter Games, as other teams booked their places for the top eight over a weekend of exciting football.
The excitement around the Ikeja Lerato Lamola Winter Games is really heating up, especially after the shocking elimination of reigning champions AT Mambas.
Meanwhile, Skepe Nketole, famously known as the Chopper Boys for their helicopter transport, has secured their spot in the quarterfinals, sparking buzz among fans and supporters.
Football fanatic Khomotjo Makgopa said: “Next week, the chopper is coming,” reflecting Skepe Nketole’s dramatic style and supporter enthusiasm.
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The Chopper Boys narrowly beat Fire Snipers 1–0 in the last 16 on June 22 at Lord Khanyile Sports Ground, Esgodini. Another football fan, Kaizer Nkuna, said: “Fire Snippers were out of the game.”
Skepe Nketole will face Spain, who beat Real Super Stars 1–0 to secure their quarterfinal spot.
Real Super Stars supporter Lawrence Mpya shared pride in the team’s performance, noting it was the first time they reached the last 16 of this prestigious tournament. “As Real Super Stars, we are so proud of our young lads who showed up yesterday in the last 16 for the very first time in this competition. The boys raised their hands, or should I say, their soccer boots, with grit and determination over their otherwise overly experienced opponents.
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“They really played a good game, despite the loss, and we bow out with our heads held high, unashamedly. Good luck to Spain, Ama2000, PEP 11, and Skepe for securing their places among the elite eight this year. We also wish the last 8 of the top 16 all the best. To the organisers, we say, so far so good, and we are hopeful it will be smooth sailing throughout the entire tournament. Kudos to everyone involved in providing us with this prestigious soccer exhibition. We salute you.”
PEP 11 defeated Sizanani 2–1 and will face another fan favourite, Ama2000, who comfortably beat District 10 2–0. The last encounters of the last 16 will resume on June 28 and will feature One Lion versus K9, and Mudagasi FC meeting Marashia.
Mighty Birds also advanced to the last 16 after defeating Izidla Mlilo in the last 32 by 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw on June 21. They will face PSG, who beat Zone 14 2–0. Mantlwaneng Shakers eliminated African Pride Games reigning champs 012 Ayifuniwena 1–0 in the last 32, and will face Mashashane in the last 16, who caused a major upset by knocking out AT Mambas.
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The Mambas’ exit, one of the top local teams, shocked fans and analysts alike. Many expressed concern about the team’s decline, suggesting the squad’s core has weakened and investment is needed. “Quality players need money,” said Matsobane Lechidi. “It’s clear the core of the team is no more. Only the name remains.” Some fans agree that rebuilding is crucial if they hope to regain their former stature.
As the tournament continues, supporters remain excited and hopeful for more thrilling football. The final encounters of the round of 16 are on June 28, with quarterfinals starting on June 29.
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