The AmaZulu Community Trust and Hollywood Foundation successfully hosted the 2024 Siyakhula Cup U15 Championship, culminating in a thrilling showcase of youth football.
The two-day event, held on November 16-17 at the Hollywoodbets Kings Park’s KP7 and K8 grounds, saw AmaZulu FC’s U15 team crowned champions in the boys’ category after defeating KZN Academy 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The match ended in a 1-1 draw during regulation time.
AmaZulu’s Triumph
Despite the absence of U15 Head Coach Taoni Banda, who was attending the CAF SAFA B License Coaching Course, AmaZulu’s Technical Director Celokuhle Mbanjwa guided the team to victory. Mbanjwa expressed pride in the team’s performance:
“We are very, very happy to win the Hollywood Foundation Siyakhula Cup 2024 edition. The boys worked hard to achieve championship status. We last won this trophy in 2021, so it’s exciting to claim it again in 2024.”
The U15 team is now setting their sights on the Iber Cup in Gauteng, scheduled for December 12-16, where they will represent KwaZulu-Natal on an international stage.
Girls’ and Schools’ Competitions
In the girls’ category, Senzokuhle FC emerged victorious, after beating Sunflower Women FC 3-0 in the final. Meanwhile, the tournament also included a schools’ competition inspired by CAF’s initiative to integrate school football into organized championships. Trenance Park Secondary triumphed in this category, defeating Clairwood Secondary 1-0 in the final.
Prize and Support
Winners across all categories received R10,000 cash prizes and kits sponsored by the Hollywood Foundation, which were also presented to the runners-up. The Siyakhula Cup continues to serve as a critical platform for nurturing young football talent and promoting grassroots sports development in South Africa.