The 2026 Curro Halala Cup continued to cement its place as one of the country’s premier school football tournaments as top teams gathered at HeronBridge College for the Gauteng 1 and Gauteng 2 playoff rounds on May 23.
Following the round-robin regional stages held in April across eight regions nationwide, qualifying teams returned to compete for rankings and places in the national finals, set to take place at HeronBridge College from August 14–16.
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Head of sport at HeronBridge Primary School, Tshepiso More, said the tournament had grown significantly since its launch last year.
“This is the second edition of the Halala Cup. Last year, the finals were hosted at HeronBridge and there were 16 schools involved in the U19 boys’ tournament.”
More added that schools from almost every province are participating in the competition, making it one of the biggest school football tournaments in the country.
“All the provinces except North West and Eastern Cape are represented. The tournament is massive and the winning school will walk away with R100 000.”
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He highlighted Clapham High School as one of the standout teams, while also praising surprise performers Mondeor and Vaal High School for impressive displays during the playoffs.
One of the players representing Clapham High School, Rethabile Mkasa, described the tournament as both challenging and rewarding.
“It’s quite a good experience and a great opportunity to participate in this amazing tournament. I’m grateful to be taking part for the second time.
“The tournament has been intense and tough, but the boys, coaches, and technical staff have supported us throughout the journey to qualify for nationals.”
Mkasa said the national finals would provide an important platform to showcase football talent from across South Africa.
“The nationals are impressive because teams from different provinces and regions come together. It’s a great space to expose the talent South Africa has, and we are very pleased to participate as a school from Clapham.”
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