Jozi Rapids U17 may not have lifted the trophy, but their spirited performances at the Easter Cup of Champions showed plenty of promise for the future.

Joburg City FC was crowned the new U17 champions of the 2026 Easter Cup of Champions after an exciting weekend of youth football at Pinnacle College Kyalami on April 3, 4, and 6.

The annual tournament once again showcased some of the country’s brightest young football talent, with teams from across South Africa and beyond its borders competing in a high-level competition that continues to grow in stature each year.

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Among the clubs flying the local flag was Jozi Rapids FC, whose U17 side delivered a spirited campaign against strong opposition and left the tournament with valuable lessons, confidence, and plenty of promise.

Jozi Rapids made an encouraging start to their campaign with a 2–0 victory over Maritzburg, courtesy of goals from Matthew Van Der Westhuizen and Khanyo Kgotsa.

They followed that up with a 0–0 draw against Siwelele, before narrowly going down 1–0 to Prestige College in their final outing. Despite the mixed results, Rapids U17 coach Sinethemba Zweni expressed pride in the team’s performances, and optimism for the future.

“Every class gives a learner [the opportunity] to reflect and improve in order to perform better. We played well. At times, the results didn’t reflect the true reflection of the games, but we believe in what we are building at Rapids.”

Zweni described the level of competition as both challenging and rewarding, with the team facing established opposition from the Gauteng development league (GDL), as well as clubs from outside the province and abroad.

He said the opening win over Maritzburg stood out as Rapids’ best performance, particularly because of the team’s movement, possession play, and collective energy. The coach also rated the team’s overall showing at the tournament a solid seven out of 10, praising not only the players but also the technical and support staff behind the scenes.

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Among the club’s standout performers at the tournament were Simphiwe Mkhonza, Thubelihle Masinga, Thato Oliphants, Khanyo Kgotsa, Sizwe Dube, Lihle Luthuli, and Luthando Ntshangase.

While satisfied with much of what the team produced, Zweni said the tournament also highlighted the importance of strengthening the mental and psychological preparation of players ahead of major competitions.

“Maybe bring in a motivational speaker a week before the tournament to instill belief in the individuals and the team, but otherwise, a lot looked good.”

With the Easter Cup now behind them, Jozi Rapids are already turning their attention to the next phase of the season.

“We prepare for the next tournament in June, but the big preparations now are looking towards the Kaapstad Cup in Cape Town in October, and then our December involvement in various tournaments across all age groups.

A huge thank you to Energrade, who is our main sponsor. We are calling on brands and individuals who want to get involved as supporters and sponsors.”

Potential sponsors, and players interested in joining the club, can follow @jozirapidsfc across social media platforms.

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