DURBAN LADIES COMPLETE HISTORIC THREE-PEAT AS JUNIOR STARS RISE TO CLAIM BOYS’ TITLE AT 2025 ENGEN KNOCKOUT CHALLENGE

The KwaZulu-Natal leg of the 2025 Engen Knockout Challenge wrapped up in thrilling fashion at Kloof High School, with Durban Ladies etching their name in history after securing a third consecutive title in the girls’ division, while Junior Stars were crowned champions in the boys’ division following two electrifying days of youth football.

KwaZulu-Natal’s top under-18 boys and under-20 girls’ teams battled it out in what proved to be one of the most competitive editions to date.

In the girls’ division, Durban Ladies once again proved untouchable, lifting the trophy for the third straight year after edging past Ezemvelo 5-4 in a nerve-wracking penalty shoot-out. 

In the boys’ division, Junior Stars claimed their moment, defeating Kusekhaya Academy in a hard-fought final that highlighted their grit, tactical discipline, and attacking firepower winning 1-0. 

Tournament ambassador and former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Brighton Mhlongo, was on hand throughout the weekend inspiring players with hands on support and key insights. His message was clear: “This tournament is more than just a platform it’s a springboard for the next generation to grow, lead, and dream bigger.”

The 2025 theme, “It’s Your Moment, Future Diski Legends,” echoed across the tournament both on and off the field as emerging stars rose to the occasion and embraced the spotlight.

Now, as provincial champions, Durban Ladies and Junior Stars will proudly represent KwaZulu-Natal at the Engen Champ of Champs in October 2025, going head-to-head with the nation’s elite.

Engen Knockout Individual awards:

GIRLS 

Goalkeeper of the tournament: Nosipho Madikane – Ezemvelo              

Defender of the tournament: Luyanda Thabethe– Durban Ladies 

Midfielder of the tournament: Okuhle Sithole – Durban Ladies 

Top Goalscorer: Asanda Mchunu– Ezemvelo

Striker of the tournament: Noluthando Fenner – Ezemvelo 

Coach of the tournament: Melikhana Makhaye – Durban Ladies 

Player of the tournament: Okuhle Sithole -Durban Ladies 

Fair play team of the tournament: Mpheli All Stars 

BOYS 

Goalkeeper of the tournament: Siphephelo Majozi – KZN Academy             

Defender of the tournament: Siphesihle Sikhakhane – Khuzekhanya

Midfielder of the tournament:  Andile Ngobese – Amazulu FC

Top Goalscorer: Mtobisi Zondo – INANDA XL

Striker of the tournament: Melokuhle Khoma – Junior Stars 

Coach of the tournament: Musawenkosi Ntuli – Junior Stars

Player of the tournament: Melokuhle Khomo -Junior Stars

Fairplay team of the tournament: Kuzekhaya

GENERAL

Referee of the tournament: Sabelo Gumede  

– ENDS –