Phomolong Sports Ground delivered a feast of kasi football as the African Pride Games 2026 brought together some of the best U23 and senior teams during the tournament’s first round from September 24 to October 4.

The action now moves to Kanana Sports Ground, where the second round will take place from October 10 to 18 as the remaining teams continue their battle for tournament glory.

The senior first round produced plenty of excitement, with 32 teams locking horns for a place in the next stage. After an action-packed Round of 32, 16 teams remained in contention for the title.

The senior Round of 16 was completed at Phomolong Sports Ground on October 3 and 4, with teams fighting for the remaining eight places in the next round.

Tournament founder Phuti Lekoloane said the first round had delivered the competitive football and unexpected results that supporters had come to expect from the African Pride Games.

Read more: Rabie Ridge soccer wonderkid gets TS Galaxy nod

“As we saw surprises, shocking results, favourites rising to the occasion, and everything we expected from an action-packed Round of 32, the stage is now set for the Round of 16,” said Lekoloane.

“And it doesn’t get any easier in the African Pride Games 2026. The heat has only just started. Gear up for the Last 16 as the remaining teams battle it out for a place in the next round. Expect more action, more drama and, of course, great kasi football.”

Clashes set for Kanana

The Round of 16 fixtures have now been confirmed, with fan favourites Skepe Nketole opening the action against Malandelela FC on October 10.

Ama Ten Ten will face Sizanani, while Mashashane FC will meet Archaar Boys FC. Mudagasi FC will take on Ngwadla FC in the final match of the day.

The following day, October 11, Team of Choice will face One Lion in the opening fixture, followed by River Park FC against Molototsi United. The Rock FC will then take on Covid 19 before Edenvale Stars and AT Mambas close out the senior Round of 16 action.

Also read: Super Midrand Ladies Academy conquers Imbokodo women’s soccer tournament

Lekoloane thanked the Phomolong community for hosting the tournament’s opening stages and welcomed supporters to the next chapter of the competition.

“A big thank you to Phomolong Sports Ground for welcoming the African Pride Games and hosting our Round of 32 Senior fixtures and Last 16 U23 action. The journey continues, the excitement grows, and the road to glory gets tougher,” he said.

“Next stop is Kanana Sports Ground. Alikho ilanga neskhathi esingafiki [There is no day and time that does not arrive]. Kanana Sports Ground, here we come.”

With the tournament now entering its exciting stages, supporters can expect more high-stakes matches as the remaining teams battle for a place in the next round and ultimately the tournament’s 2026 crown.

Fans are encouraged to attend the fixtures at Kanana Sports Ground and support their local teams as the tournament continues its journey through kasi football.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!