Banele Nxumalo’s stunner secures Edendale’s first KZN Inland A-League title
In only their second season in the Mancosa KwaZulu-Natal High Schools Football Association (KZNHSFA) Inland A-League, Edendale Technical High captured the title on Wednesday by defeating Carter High 1-0 on Barns Field at Maritzburg College.
Early in the second half, Carter went a man down when they conceded a free kick on the edge of the box. From there, Banele Nxumalo delivered the match-winning goal, which struck high on the inside of the left-hand post, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
The teams reached the final of the Inland A-League with identical records of five wins, one draw, and one defeat during the regular season. They tied with 16 points, the same as Ixopo, who finished third, missing out on the title game on goal difference.
Carter High, who finished top of the table, reached the final for a third consecutive year. They won the title in 2024, beating Maritzburg College. They returned to the final in 2025 to face the same opponent, but Maritzburg College lifted the trophy.
Catch the KZN Coastal B-League final LIVE on SuperSport Schools
In 2026, Carter High led the way throughout the season, holding onto first place throughout. Edendale, however, upended them in the final.
It has been a remarkable rise for Edendale, who finished third in their first season in the KZN Inland A-League, narrowly missing out on the final, after earning promotion in 2024.
Moments after his team’s victory was secured, Edendale coach Mxolisi Mchunu told SuperSport Schools News how excited his charges were to be crowned the Inland A-League champions. “This is our second season, and we managed to win the title. We thank our boys for a good fight. Indeed, they made us proud,” he said.
Mchunu said Edendale’s campaign got off to a rough start, with a loss against Ixopo and a draw against Linpark, which dimmed his side’s hopes. However, they turned things around and, ultimately, ended up winning the title.
“We spoke to our boys, and they promised us they would win all the remaining games, and I am happy they did as they promised,” he concluded.
Forthcoming Fixture
KZN Coastal B-League Final: Queensburgh High
Thursday, 11 June
15:30 – Queensburgh High vs Brettonwood
