“They are deserving champions”: GDL administrator Muzi Shangase

Gauteng Development League administrator Muzi Shangase has heaped praise on Highlands Park, declaring the club deserving champions of the 2023 season.

The Balfour Park-based outfit enjoyed an almost flawless campaign – occupying top-spot throughout the season.

“The games were a success,” said Shangase, reflecting on the gruelling eight-month-long league.

He was by no means surprised by the success of Highlands Park. “Looking back at last season, Highlands Park carried momentum into this year. Last season, they finished second after a Mamelodi Sundowns’ domination,” said Shangase.

“In terms of the personnel, from the players to the coaches, there’s not much change from last season. I think they are deserving champions because of the consistency they showed throughout. They have been leading from day one, and that is a tough task looking at the quality of their opponents, such as Mamelodi Sundowns, the School of Excellence and Kaizer Chiefs.” he added.

Focus now shifts to the GDL Youth Cup, which gets underway this week. The tournament features Gauteng’s top teams, including Highlands Park, but also allows for some of the sides that compete in lower promotional leagues to be part of the action.

“Regarding the GDL Youth Cup tournament, it is starting this weekend with 31 teams, [including] teams from the promotional leagues, and also teams from the recently concluded GDL,” said Shangase.

“We’re looking forward to this exciting tournament. The good thing about this tournament is that it allows teams from the promotional leagues to showcase their talents and also build relationships with GDL teams.”

The curtain raiser of the Youth Cup will be a match between Kagiso Porto and the School of Excellence on Saturday.