It was a mixed day for hosts Maniki Sakwe Football Club (MSFC) Ladies at the inaugural Vodacom Ladies Tournament Against Gender-Based Violence, held at AB Phokompe Soccer Grounds in Mohlakeng on September 27.

MSFC fell short in the tournament semi-finals but bounced back in their league fixture, beating Merafong Ladies 4–2.

The semi-final results set up an all-Soweto final between Mzimhlope Ladies and Blue Knights, with Mzimhlope emerging victorious with a 4–2 win to lift the trophy.

In the netball clash, local side Makoreya proved too strong for Thunder Queens from Dan Tloome, claiming a 20–14 victory.

Despite the hosts’ exit from the tournament, the event highlighted the role of sport in bringing women and girls together to stand against gender-based violence (GBV).

Organiser Boitumelo Phiri said the tournament provided an important platform for women and girls to express themselves through sport during a time when GBV remains a serious concern.

“It was indeed an important day for women’s sport, with both netball and soccer giving women and girls a platform to showcase their talent and stand together against GBV. We thank Vodacom for supporting this initiative,” said Phiri.

MSFC head coach Maniki Sakwe welcomed the response from teams outside the area and said the inaugural tournament had provided valuable lessons for future events.

“We are happy to see a positive response from ladies’ soccer clubs outside our area. Despite a few challenges, we have seen growth, and we will use this experience to improve next year’s tournament,” said Sakwe.

Sakwe is also credited with discovering former Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Oupa ‘Ace’ Manyisa.