Shilumani Academy triumph on penalties to lift Magangeni title

Shilumani Academy was crowned overall champions of the Annual Magangeni Soccer Tournament, defeating Waterval Real Stars in the final on 30 December. The match ended in a goalless draw, with Shilumani Academy winning 4–3 in a penalty shoot-out.

The final was attended by Deputy Minister of Finance David Masonto and senior traditional leader Hosi Hlekani Mkhari Njhakanjhaka. The tournament featured eight teams from the Makhado Football Association and eight from the Safa Vhembe Hollywood League.

Tournament organiser Takalani Malaka said the initiative was born out of a love for children. “We are just giving young players direction. Who knows – we might see future national squad players emerge from this part of Vhembe,” he said.

Masonto praised the organisers for promoting sports development in the Vhembe region and across Limpopo. He noted that many young people look up to sports stars as role models, regardless of their educational background.

During the prize-giving ceremony after the final, more than R100,000 was distributed among the winners. Shilumani Academy and Waterval Real Stars each received R10,000 as stream winners, along with a new soccer kit, gold medals and a floating trophy. Bush River and Bokisi Scientists, who finished second in their respective streams, received R7,500 each, a new soccer kit and silver medals. The third- and fourth-placed teams in each stream received R5,000 and R2,000 respectively.

Date:15 January 2026

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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