POLOKWANE – The Nirvana Youth and Social Upliftment (NYSU) organisation hosted a successful national soccer tournament at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on June 21 and 22, drawing teams from across South Africa for a weekend of sportsmanship and spirited competition.

The two-day event featured both U/17 and Open divisions. In the U/17 bracket, Pretoria-based PSG FC claimed top honours, while Laudium FC finished second. Local favourites Multi Sports Academy (MSA) from Polokwane took home the lower bracket title, impressing with their resilience and teamwork.

In the Open division, Aleppo FC from Gauteng emerged as overall winners, with Kinross FC finishing as runners-up.

Nirvana United thrilled local supporters with a 2-1 victory over Ermelo Sporting Club in a closely contested match, while Santos FC walked away with the lower bracket honours.

Beyond the action on the field, the event created a festive atmosphere, complete with food stalls, community vendors, and prize giveaways.

Organiser and MSA coach Shamier Cassim praised the tournament’s success and expressed gratitude to the community, local municipalities, and sponsors for their support.

“We truly appreciate the sportsmanship shown by all teams and are thankful to those who travelled to participate. Events like these show what can be achieved when a community comes together,” said Cassim.

With strong community backing and an eye on growing the sport, NYSU plans to make the tournament an annual fixture to continue nurturing young talent and strengthening community bonds through sport.