VANDERBIJLPARK.- It was action-packed throughout the day when local soccer schools participated in the Department of Education U11 World Cup 2026 at Vaal High on Saturday.

This initiative, which formed part of the celebrations for the ongoing Fifa World Cup 2026, was organised by the Sedibeng West District (D8). Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, D8 sports official, Nkoali Botsane, said this initiative was in line with the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is currently underway.

It was action galore throughout the day as boys and girls showcased their talent. This was the first initiative of its kind hosted by the Sedibeng West District, featuring boys and girls playing with and against each other.

It was a fun-filled day, with teachers and parents enjoying every moment of the action. The programme started in the morning and ran until the finals in the afternoon. Botsane described this mini world cup tournament as a huge success, with local schools turning out in large numbers to participate.

He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that the initiative was not about winning, but about supporting the FIFA World Cup 2026. He hailed the event as a huge success, considering the number of schools that honoured the invitation. He noted that the positive response from school principals, teachers, and parents was something to take note of.

Botsane explained that as D8, they saw it as important to organise this mini schools’ world cup to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026.

“This is also to show support to our own Bafana Bafana, and I do not doubt that they are going to register their first world cup victory against Czechia on June 18.”

He acknowledged that the national team did not start well, but remained confident that they would win both of their next games. The initiative was meant to rally behind Bafana Bafana, and Botsane expressed happiness with the turnout.

“I want to thank everyone who made this event a success, especially the organising committee who planned this mini tournament. It was exciting to watch these girls showcase their skills against the boys, and I do not doubt that most of them will play for Banyana Banyana. What I witnessed today was unbelievable, seeing these girls compete against the boys,” concluded Botsane.