AmaZulu’s U18s have learnt their opponents for the 2024 edition of the Engen Knockout Challenge (EKOC), which will be played on the 29-30 June at UKZN Edgewood, in Pinetown.
Usuthu will be hoping to defend their title and secure their place in the Engen Champ of Champs again this season. They have been drawn in Group B against Inanda XI and Mtuba FC.
Head coach of the team, Brice Petersen gave some insight into how the players are going to navigate the tournament and has his sights set on glory.
“The group I think is going to be interesting, I don’t know the teams, I’ve heard a bit about them so I’m going to learn about them as we go,” he said.
“Hopefully in the next couple of weeks or days I could learn more about the teams and we’ll take it from there. But I think our focus is preparing our boys to go out there and challenge. With the resources we’ve got, I can’t see why we couldn’t defend our title.”
The EKOC is regarded as South Africa’s largest youth football competition and Usuthu is keen on lifting the trophy once more.
Speaking at the official draw in Durban, Engen Knockout Challenge brand ambassador and former national team goalkeeper, Brighton Mhlongo said the growth of the Engen Knockout Challenge continues to be evident in South African football – citing the example of Bafana Bafana debutant Relebohile Mofokeng.
“The Engen Knockout Challenge continues to live up to its objective of creating a platform for players, coaches and referees to showcase their talent. Year in, year out we witness exciting talent emerging from the tournament to the higher ranks of South African football,” said Mhlongo.
