BY THEMBA ZWANE
MATSAPHA – Sisonkhe Simunye were crowned champions of the Build It EFA U13 Matsapha Tournament after overcoming Young Heroes in a thrilling final at the Swazi National High School Sports Ground on Saturday.
The tournament got off to an exciting start with a vibrant community parade from Build It Matsapha to the tournament venue, setting the tone for a day that celebrated youth football, community participation and the development of future football talent.
The Matsapha tournament was the second edition of the Build It EFA U13 Tournament in 2026, following the successful Manzini tournament held the previous weekend.
Eight teams participated in the Matsapha competition, with Group A featuring Young Buffaloes, Mahlanya Professionals, Super 16 and Sisonkhe Simunye, while Group B comprised Royal Leopard, Young Heroes, Usuthu Stars and Mhlaleni Superstars.
The top two teams from each group advanced to the semi-finals before Sisonkhe Simunye and Young Heroes booked their places in the championship decider.
Sisonkhe Simunye enjoyed an impressive campaign, suffering just one defeat before completing their journey with victory in the final. Young Heroes also produced a strong showing to finish as worthy runners-up.
The tournament also recognised outstanding individual performances.
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
Highest Number of Goals: Nkosingivile Dlamini – Usuthu Stars
Best Goalkeeper: Melisizwe Dludlu – Sisonkhe Simunye
Best Defender: Ayavuya Fakudze – Young Heroes
Best Midfielder: Mphilwenhle Mabuza – Sisonkhe Simunye
Player of the Tournament: Ayavuya Fakudze – Young Heroes
FINAL STANDINGS
Champions: Sisonkhe Simunye
Runners-up: Young Heroes
Beyond the trophies, the Build It EFA U13 Tournament continues to provide an important platform for grassroots football development in Eswatini. The competition gives young players valuable exposure while creating opportunities for coaches and technical personnel to identify and nurture emerging talent.
The Eswatini Football Association extended its appreciation to Build It for its continued investment in youth football and commitment to creating opportunities for young players across the country.
The Association also congratulated Sisonkhe Simunye on their championship triumph and commended all participating teams, coaches, officials, parents, supporters and community stakeholders for contributing to another successful celebration of grassroots football.
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