Challenge hopes to unearth talent

THE opening matches of the 2016 edition are scheduled to take place at the Nike Football Centre in Soweto on Thursday, December 1.

Run under the auspices of Soweto Local Football Association (LFA), the Safa-endorsed tournament is a stepping stone for inspiring football players. The initiative has helped launch the football careers of many South African soccer stars, including Thulani Serero – Ajax Amsterdam, Oupa Manyisa – Orlando Pirates, Bafana Bafana captain and Bidvest defender Thulani Hlatswayo and the recently unveiled 2016 tournament ambassador Sifiso Myeni.

The 2016 edition of the Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge promises to again unearth young talent and future soccer legends.

This year, the initiative will see 104 teams compete in the challenge. Fifty-six teams will be competing in the main category, 32 teams in the under 17 category, and 16 teams in the women’s category.

All divisions will play in a round robin format, followed by knockout challenges at the quarterfinals and semi-finals to determine which teams will advance to the finals.

In commemoration of World Aids Day, taking place on December 1, the tournament will also be used as a platform to remember HIV and Aids victims as well as to create awareness of the importance of health screenings and healthy eating within the community.

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