The draw for the Eastern Cape leg of South Africa’s leading youth football tournament, the Engen Knockout Challenge, took place on Tuesday at the Kennaway Hotel, in East London.
The event brought together representatives from Engen, the Eastern Cape Football Association, participating clubs, and key football stakeholders, and set the stage for the regional tournament, which will be played on 26-27 July at Dale College, in Qonce.
It’s the first time that the tournament visits Qonce and it demonstrates Engen’s ongoing efforts to widen access and opportunity within grassroots football.
Speaking at the event, Engen Knockout Challenge ambassador and FIFA Talent Coach, Thabo Senong, highlighted the importance of taking the tournament to new communities.
“It’s vital for platforms like the Engen Knockout Challenge to reach different parts of the country,” he said.
“By moving into King William’s Town (Qonce), we open the door to players with talent who just need the right platform. It’s how we grow South African football.”
Engen Communications Manager, Gavin Smith, reiterated the brand’s continued investment in youth development and spoke about the vision behind this year’s campaign message: “The Engen Knockout Challenge continues to be a space where potential is recognised and developed.
“This year’s message, ‘It’s Your Moment, Future Diski Legends’, is a reminder to every young player that their time is now.”
The tournament in Qonce will feature 16 girls’ and 16 boys’ teams.
Engen Knockout Challenge Eastern Cape Groups
Girls’ draw
Group A: Caledonian AFC, Maivuke FC, Phoenix Birds Ladies FC
Group B: Coastal United Ladies FC, Golden Stars Ladies, City Lads FC
Group C: Shakes 1O1, Ebhayi FC, WSU BCC
Group D: Blackpool Ladies FC, Nav-Galaxy Ladies, Buffalo Stars Ladies
Boys’ draw
Group A: Malcomess Secondary School, Braelyn Brothers Fc, Maria-Kouw High School
Group B: Chippa United FC, United Professional FC, City Strikers FC
Group C: Matshona Young Stars, Red Lions FC, Real Aces FC
Group D: Mini Stars FC, Highbury FC, Strikers FC
Ongama Gcwabe is an experienced Sports Journalist based in South Africa. He is passionate about youth sport just as much as he is about the professional sports scene. In his career, Ongama has covered various domestic and international tournaments across various sporting codes including cricket and football. His work has been published in the country’s biggest newspapers company, Independent Media, and some of the leading news and sports websites including IOL Sport.
Ongama Gcwabe
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