Turffontein’s Black City Aces FC U17 team finished runners-up in the Skoko Super Cup, held yesterday at Queens High School in Bezuidenhout Valley.

The team lost 2-0 to Hola Skoko in the final after an impressive run that saw them win six matches to reach the title decider.

The tournament featured 120 teams from different provinces competing across age groups ranging from U6 to U17.

Honouring a legacy

The team’s coach, Stanford Banda, said the achievement was particularly special considering the team had only one week to prepare for the competition.

“This is huge for us, especially because we were the only team from the South. You will remember that this team was founded by the late Sipho Shiba, who died last September, and what a way to honour him, considering October 26 was his birthday,” said Banda.

Despite their short preparation time, the players gave their all on the field, with several young players standing out during the tournament.

Standout players

Banda praised goalkeepers Mbulelo Ludidi (12) and Katlego Tau (13), as well as midfielder Chazz Rheeder (14), for their contributions. He singled out striker Ndeto Mbaki as the team’s most outstanding player.

Team manager Matsitsi Gloria Tlhatsi, Shiba’s wife, also supported the team’s journey, and Banda thanked her for her commitment and support.

“I would like to thank her for being there for us. Our sponsors, Anthony Hugo and Natasha Rheeder, also played an important role. We must not forget soccer legend Lucky Lekgwathi, who sponsored us with Champion Breakfast Phinda Mzala. It really carried us through the tournament,” he said.

Although they fell short of lifting the trophy, Banda said the team’s performance was a significant achievement, particularly given the limited preparation time and the quality of opposition they faced.

Black City Aces FC is now seeking further sponsorship and support to help the young players develop their footballing talent and compete in future tournaments.

For more information or to sponsor the team, contact Banda on 065 717 2143.