Images: Football Stage, Suppllied
Calling all football supporters in Cape Town! From 7 to 9 June 2024, the Erica Park Stadium in Belhar will host the most thrilling tournament of the season, featuring 32 teams battling for provincial champions titles. That’s right: The Engen Knockout Challenge is back – and bigger than ever!
“We are thrilled to deliver the 22nd edition of the Engen Knockout Challenge,” Bennett Bailey, SAFA Vice-President and SAFA Cape Town President, told Capeat6sport. “This tournament is a platform for young players, coaches, referees, and administrators to shine and create opportunities for all in the football ecosystem.”
Defending champions face off against tough opponents
A total of 32 teams, equally divided into Boys (U18) and Girls (U20), will battle it out to be crowned provincial champions and subsequently secure a place at this year’s Engen Champ of Champs in September.
In the Girls U20 division, Cape Town Roses will face Magic Ladies in a highly anticipated match, while UWC Ladies take on Spurs Womens FC in the marquee fixture. Meanwhile, the Boys U18 division sees Stellenbosch, last year’s champions, going head-to-head with Hellenic.
The tournament promises to be a spectacle, with Engen Knockout Challenge ambassadors Brighton Mhlongo and Thabo Senong in attendance throughout the three-day event.
Football for Youth Development
The Engen Knockout Challenge has been running for over 20 years, and is one of the most prestigious – and popular – tournaments in the grassroots football calendar, with regional tournaments in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.
“This is an event where not only individual players debut; but clubs, referees, coaches, and administrators as well,” Bailey noted, also praising.the emergence of community-based clubs. “What is striking is the emergence of the community-based clubs who, in an emboldened way, are staking their claim for honours.”
The KO Challenge is a great showcase for young talent – and has produced national talent eligible to participate in the South African football national team and topflight clubs
“It’s about creating opportunities for all in the ecosystem of football – and Engen made it possible,” Bailey concluded.
“We wish every participant well during the finals – and may football be the winner!”
With exciting matchups, esteemed ambassadors, and a focus on youth development, the Engen Knockout Challenge is set to be an unforgettable event. Don’t miss out on the action – stay tuned for more!
