Durban Ladies complete historic three-peat
The KwaZulu-Natal leg of the 2025 Engen Knockout Challenge wrapped up in thrilling fashion at Kloof High School on Friday, with Durban Ladies etching their name in history by securing a third consecutive title in the girls’ division.
Junior Stars claimed the boys’ title after two days of electrifying football.
The event brought together KwaZulu-Natal’s top u18 boys’ and u20 girls’ teams, who battled it out in a very competitive competition.
In the girls’ division, however, Durban Ladies, once again, went all the way, but they were pushed to their limits in the final by Ezemvelo, sneaking a 5-4 win in a penalty shoot-out.
In the boys’ division, Junior Stars demonstrated grit, tactical discipline and attacking firepower to score a hard-fought 1-0 win over Kusekhaya Academy in the title game.
Tournament ambassador and former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Brighton Mhlongo, was on hand throughout the weekend and inspired the players with hands-on support and key insights. His message was clear: “This tournament is more than just a platform. It’s a springboard for the next generation to grow, lead, and dream bigger.”
The 2025 theme, “It’s Your Moment, Future Diski Legends,” echoed across the tournament both on and off the field as emerging stars rose to the occasion and embraced the spotlight.
As the provincial champions, Durban Ladies and Junior Stars will represent KwaZulu-Natal at the Engen Champ of Champs in October 2025, when they go head-to-head with the nation’s other regional champions.
Engen Knockout Individual Awards
Girls
Goalkeeper of the tournament: Nosipho Madikane – Ezemvelo
Defender of the tournament: Luyanda Thabethe – Durban Ladies
Midfielder of the tournament: Okuhle Sithole – Durban Ladies
Top Goalscorer: Asanda Mchunu – Ezemvelo
Striker of the tournament: Noluthando Fenner – Ezemvelo
Coach of the tournament: Melikhana Makhaye – Durban Ladies
Player of the tournament: Okuhle Sithole – Durban Ladies
Fair play team of the tournament: Mpheli All Stars
Boys
Goalkeeper of the tournament: Siphephelo Majozi – KZN Academy
Defender of the tournament: Siphesihle Sikhakhane – Khuzekhanya
Midfielder of the tournament: Andile Ngobese – Amazulu FC
Top Goalscorer: Mtobisi Zondo – Inanda XL
Striker of the tournament: Melokuhle Khoma – Junior Stars
Coach of the tournament: Musawenkosi Ntuli – Junior Stars
Player of the tournament: Melokuhle Khomo – Junior Stars
Fairplay team of the tournament: Kuzekhaya
Referee of the tournament: Sabelo Gumede
