Running from 13 – 24 December 2022, the Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge hosted 40 open men’s teams, 4 women teams and 32 Under 17 teams at Soweto’s newly renovated Nike Football Training Centre, recently renamed Shapa Soweto.
Taking place during the school holidays, the round-robin knockout tournament is as much about the on-field football, as the off-field festivities and that welcoming spectators is what the Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge does best.
This year however will go down in tournament history: Quality football, but quiet crowds due to Covid19.
Discovery Vitality’s Head of Wellness, Dr Mosima Mabunda said: “We’re delighted that this year’s tournament has ended on such a high. Beyond being an excellent physical activity – something at the core of Discovery’s purpose of making people healthier and protecting and enhancing their lives – soccer is also a powerful social force.
“During the last two weeks, the community has rallied together and demonstrated remarkable resilience.” She added, “Discovery is proud to have sponsored a tournament that was well run and of extremely high standard.”
First up on finals day were u17 teams The Citizens FC vs Pimville Young Stars FC who drew 0-0 after full time.
A penalty shootout ensued, with Pimville Young Stars claiming victory 5-4, and taking home the welcomed prize purse of R30 000.
Next was the turn of the ladies, with Soweto Fabulous FC up against Lora Bokamoso FC. It was Lora Bokamoso FC who stole the limelight with an out and out victory of 3-0 and the tournament championship cheque of R100 000.
In the much anticipated 3pm Mens Open final, it was Strokes FC vs Pimville West Ham FC. This match up came as a result of Strokes FC beating Ndavhe FC in the Stream A semi-finals and Pimville West Ham FC beating Crystal Stars FC in the Stream B semi-finals.
After a tightly fought 60 minutes, it was Strokes FC who claimed their tournament championship title with a 4-1 win and thus the R100 000 cheque.
Phil Mogodi, president of SAFA Johannesburg (Tournament Director), says that tremendous character has been shown throughout and that the players themselves have shown their appreciation and respect for the tournament go ahead.
“Pressure was present right from the get-go with the confirmation of the 2019 reigning champions in both the u17 and mens categories set to defend their titles.
“In my opinion, the quality of play was as strong as ever, with plenty on the line as club scouts from the likes of Supersport United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Jomo Cosmos Football Club’s all present. Add to all of that, the allowance of professional players in the teams, and we found many a young man and woman, stepping up in admiration and in the hope of one day turning pro.
“When commencing the tournament, we started on the backfoot on two fronts – one being the Covid-19 pandemic, the other being a tournament first-timer of a closed-door event.
“I cannot adequately express my sincere gratitude to Discovery, SA Football Association, Soweto Local Football Association and Nike for their backing through and through: We are thrilled that our players could play, performing with passion and a professionalism that we can be proud of.
“To every role-player involved: It is your dedication, teamwork, experience and love of the game that ensured we once again top the scoreboard. I thank you.
Thank you to TikTok SA: Having you join in on the action ensured the live streaming of certain games, allowing our fans to follow online and making the best of a challenging pandemic.
“And lastly, a huge thank you to the Soweto community. No doubt gutted at the news of no spectators, you ultimately respected the decision made: We see you, appreciate you and value you – and hope that come 2022, we can warmly welcome you once more.”
