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EZEKIEL PHALANA AND ANDILE MATHEBULA
South Africa’s brightest young football talent is set to take centre stage this weekend after the official draw for the 2026 Engen Knockout Challenge Johannesburg confirmed an exciting lineup of fixtures for one of the country’s premier youth football tournaments.
Taking place from 17 to 19 July at Wits Marks Park, the tournament returns under the inspiring theme, “Where Diski Legends Start,” bringing together elite boys’ and girls’ teams from across the country to compete for Johannesburg honours while showcasing the next generation of South African football stars.
The boys’ Under-18 competition promises a thrilling contest, with defending champions Panorama FC looking to retain their title against a highly competitive field that includes football powerhouses Kaizer Chiefs FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Mamelodi Sundowns FC, TS Galaxy FC, Highlands Park FC and Siwelele FC, alongside several emerging clubs eager to make their mark.
The girls’ Under-20 tournament is equally poised to deliver high-quality football as defending champions University of Johannesburg begin their title defence against a talented field featuring Mamelodi Sundowns FC, TS Galaxy Queens, SAFA Academy, and Kaizer Chiefs Ladies, who will make their historic debut in the Engen Knockout Challenge following the launch of the club’s women’s team earlier this year.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Engen Knockout Challenge ambassador Brighton Mhlongo highlighted the competition’s role in developing future football stars.
“The Engen Knockout Challenge continues to create opportunities for young players to test themselves against the very best in the country. Johannesburg has always produced exceptional talent, and this weekend is another chance for these players to make their mark and show why this tournament remains true to its theme of ‘Where Diski Legends Start’,” said Mhlongo.
The official draw has produced several mouth-watering group-stage encounters that are expected to deliver entertaining football throughout the three-day tournament.
Boys Under-18 Draw
Group A: DBK Football Stars, Khathorus Hyper, Wits University FC, Kaizer Chiefs FC
Group B: Sanders United, Panorama FC, Mamelodi Sundowns FC, Randburg FC
Group C: TS Galaxy FC, University of Pretoria, Highlands Park FC, Prestige Football Academy
Group D: Siwelele FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Joburg City FC, Resa
Girls Under-20 Draw
Group A: Mamelodi Sundowns FC, SAFA Academy, University of Johannesburg, Rosina Sedibane
Group B: Mamelodi XI Stars, Springs Home Sweepers, TUT FC, Kaizer Chiefs Ladies
Group C: Wits Ladies FC, University of Pretoria, JVW, Mito Stars Ladies
Group D: TS Galaxy Queens, Future Stars Ladies, Panorama Ladies, Blue Birds FC
With fierce rivalries, emerging talent and the opportunity to compete against some of South Africa’s top football academies and clubs, the Johannesburg leg of the Engen Knockout Challenge promises an action-packed weekend of youth football.
As the country’s future stars take to the field, the tournament continues to reaffirm Engen’s long-standing commitment to developing grassroots football and creating pathways for young players to realise their dreams on the national and international stage.
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