Easthigh Academy crowned champions of Engen Cup at Valencia
After a two-week postponement, the Engen Knockout Challenge finals were played and the players showed off their skills on the field.
Easthigh Academy emerged victorious in the 2025 Engen Knockout Challenge after defeating Fortune Soccer Academy at the Valencia Sports Complex on Sunday, July 27. They won 2-0 and they are the champions of the Engen Cup.
The final between Fortune Soccer Academy and Easthigh Academy FC ended in goalless draw after regular time at KaBokweni Stadium on July 5, but the match was called off during the penalty shoot-out due to a lack of floodlights at the stadium. A replay was scheduled.
On Sunday, in an exciting grassroots football match, Fortune Soccer Academy were unable to capitalise, with Brown Milano and Thandolwethu Khoza of Easthigh Academy creating scoring chances that were denied in the opening minutes of the game. Thabang Maluka broke the deadlock in the 15th minute, scoring for Easthigh Academy.
Fortune Soccer Academy began looking for an equaliser, but due to the solid defence of Easthigh Academy, they were unable to create scoring opportunities. In the 31st minute of the game, Manelisi Mnisi struck a solid shot just outside the 18-area, but it was stopped by Easthigh Academy goalkeeper, Juma Sambo.
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Milano doubled the lead in the 42nd minute, giving Easthigh Academy a comfortable advantage at half-time. In the second half, Fortune Soccer Academy pushed hard for a goal, but Easthigh Academy’s solid defence held strong.
Sicelo Mashego of Fortune Soccer Academy was given a yellow card in the 59th minute for a foul on Tshepiso Monasoe of Easthigh Academy. In the final minutes, Tshepiso also received a yellow card for a reckless foul of Siyabonga Vilane of Fortune Soccer Academy.
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The final whistle was blown and Easthigh Academy celebrated their win, lifting the Engen Cup trophy. The team’s solid defence and clinical finishing, secured their championship title.
