Congratulations are in order for the U15 boys and girls who were crowned the CAF African Schools Football Championship winners at Jan Wilken Stadium in Walvis Bay.
The games took place from October 11 to 12.
Among the winners were three girls, Nkosingiphile Mthombeni of Moduping Combined School in Marite and Lizzy Khoza and Whitney Havene, both of St Mark’s High School, who flew the Mpumalanga flag high.
This three’s journey to the national team kicked off at interschool level. They progressed through the circuit, district and provincial levels, and reached the national stage in Sturrock Park in Braamfontein, where they went up against the best players in the country.
During the weekend’s games, the girls’ team won 3-1 against Malawi.
Following regular time, there was a 1-1 draw in the boys’ championship match against Zambia. SA won 4-2 on penalties. The MEC for culture, sports and recreation, Leah Mabuza, said the province is behind them all the way. She said they are proud of their achievements.
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“I also want to thank everyone who has contributed to the players’ rise to the national team,” she said.
Mabuza lauded the national team. “We are the champions. Well done, boys and girls of Mzansi.”
She highlighted the importance of investing in educations and sports.
“This will encourage young people to focus on sports and education equally, as they can both empower the youth and change their lives. We want our young people to build their future through the talents they have.”
Mpumalanga was well represented at the CAF-sanctioned tournament.
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Nyiko Manzini, who is attached to the department’s Gert Sibande office, was appointed as a safeguarding officer/team manager for the boys’ team, who will also be playing in the South-West Coast of Africa. Manzini has more than 20 years’ experience in sport and recreation.
Mpumalanga News
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