Engen Knockout Challenge crowns Gauteng provincial champions.

Experience the electrifying Engen Knockout Challenge, where Kaizer Chiefs emerged as champions in a showdown filled with talent and determination. Witness the thrilling matches and standout performances that unfolded at Wits Marks Park, setting the stage for the ultimate clash in the Engen Champ of Champs.

2 hours ago

Waydon Jacobs 2 minutes read

All smiles for soccer action at Engen Knockout Challenge.

Kaizer Chiefs emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Engen Knockout Challenge on Sunday, July 7, at Wits Marks Park stadium.

The tournament which showed the immense talent of 32 teams, took place from July 5–7, featuring fierce competition in the U18 boys’ and U20 girls’ divisions.

Transition Football (green and black) player fights for possession but lost 3–0 against Kaizer Chiefs. — Transition Football (green and black) player fights for possession, but lost 3–0 against Kaizer Chiefs.

The draw for the tournament was conducted on July 3, setting the stage for an intense battle for glory. With five fields, labelled from A to E, the venue provided a captivating backdrop for the intense matches that unfolded throughout the day.

The participating teams were divided into four groups, labelled Group A to D, each eager to make their mark and secure a spot in the finals. As the tournament reached its pinnacle, all eyes were on the highly anticipated clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns in the final showdown.

In a display of skill and determination to play in the Engen Champ of Champs, Chiefs emerged triumphant, reclaiming their title, defeating former champions Mamelodi Sundowns with a resounding 2–0 victory. The team’s stellar performance was credited to their exceptional defender, Gopolang Taunyana, who was named the defender of the tournament.

Mito Stars Ladies (green) lost 1–0 against Wits University (blue).

While Sundowns fell short in the final, their impressive journey throughout the tournament earned them the title of runners-up. Kathons Hyper Academy secured the third-place position. The esteemed title of coach of the tournament was bestowed upon David Mathebula of Chiefs, whose strategic guidance led his team to victory.

The U20 ladies’ division saw Sundowns claiming the victory against University of Johannesburg (UJ) with the match ending 0–0, and Sundowns being composed on penalties to win 4–3.

Midfielder Valentino Makhubele from Randburg AFC whips the ball in the six-yard area.

The winners of the Gauteng champions ended the provincial phase of the competition as teams will now prepare for the Engen Champ of Champs where winners from all nine provinces will go head-to-head to be crowned champions of the 2024 season.

Also read: Exciting soccer action at the Engen Knockout Qualifiers

The Engen Knockout Challenge has some notable performances on the pitch as young football players went on to be rewarded for their individual brilliance.