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Chilly Boys bites the dust in penalty shootout

PSG came from behind to win the 2023 Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 tournament on penalties against Chilly Boys

After a 1–1 tie between PSG and Chilly Boys, the Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 tournament final was decided on penalties.

Fans flocked to Zandspruit’s 52 Grounds, where they were entertained by stunning kasi football, full of skills that kept the fans on their feet, yelling and clapping for more.

Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 winners PSG. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 winners PSG. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

The young boys stepped up, unfazed by the large crowd. In the first 15 minutes, both sides attacked each other and kept possession of the ball.

Chilly Boys, however, started to show dominance, creating chances but PSG goal keeper Thabang Tshikulamela kept his team in the game. PSG’s miscommunication at the back cost them as Bongani Ngobeni header put Chilly Boys in the lead with 1–0.

PSG shot-stopper Thabang Tshikulumela tries to stop a Chilly Boys' penalty at the Sdew Kasi Lethu Games. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
PSG shot-stopper Thabang Tshikulumela tries to stop a Chilly Boys’ penalty at the Sdew Kasi Lethu Games. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

They kept the momentum going in the second half attacking – using the strength and speed of Ngobeni upfront. PSG introduced fresh legs and slowly found the game rhythm. They kept knocking and trying to break Chilly’s solid defence.

Shortly, they equalised through to Sivuyile Galo’s header. The full-time whistle saved the Chilly Boys, who were being pushed back and desperately defending.

PSG coach, Syabulela Sikulume said that it was hard for his boys – they did not read the game situations in the first half.

PSG crowned 2023 Sdew Kasi Lethu Games champions. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
PSG crowned 2023 Sdew Kasi Lethu Games champions. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

“We did not start well but in the second half we were better; we deserved to win the game. I had to take responsibility and show them what and how I want them to approach the second half.”

He added that the victory is a blessing and it means everything to his boys.

PSG was declared 2023 Sdew Kasi Lethu Games champions following a 5–4 penalty shootout victory.

Chilly Boys midfielder Xolani Zulu battles with Sihle Hlabathi at the Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 finals. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
Chilly Boys midfielder Xolani Zulu battles with Sihle Hlabathi at the Sdew Kasi Lethu U21 finals. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

The tournament attracted teams from all around Gauteng and scouts to identify promising young players for potential future opportunities.

Zandspruit-based businesses and organisations, such as Skhathisethu Academy, Zandspruit Funeral Services, and Sabza Security sponsored the tournament.

Chairman of Sdew, Skhumbuzo Nxumalo explained that it was a successful tournament that they had spent time preparing.

PSG player (orange) Sivuile Galo closes space for Shane Gumbi to make a pass. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
PSG player (orange) Sivuile Galo closes space for Shane Gumbi to make a pass. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

“We wanted it to be huge and it was exactly like that. The community showed up to support the young boys. These are the kind of initiatives we want in the area so that we are noticed by everyone. We hope these young boys grow and be big in football.”

PSG players hold their breath on the penalty shootout against Chilly Boys. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni
PSG players hold their breath on the penalty shootout against Chilly Boys. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

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