FC Basel were crowned 2025 champions of the Nwali Soccer Tournament after beating SDA Ya Limpopo 6-2 at the Khubvi Benjie's Grounds last Saturday.
The prize-giving ceremony could not be held at the ground as planned, as the organisers were still considering a protest lodged by SDA during the match. SDA alleged that Basel had exceeded the permitted five substitutions. The organising committee later ruled the allegations baseless.
Basel were presented with R25,000, the floating trophy, gold medals and a soccer ball. SDA received R10,000, silver medals and a soccer ball. Semi-finalists Thohoyandou Manchester Flying Stars and Matangari Rising Stars each collected R5,000 and a soccer ball, while quarter-finalists ABC FC, Mukula Young Santos, Manamani City and Saudi FC each took home R1,500 and a soccer ball.
Fatigue appeared to play a role in SDA's heavy defeat. The team had little time to recover after their semi-final against Matangari Rising Stars, played at the same venue shortly before the final.
Basel led 2-1 at half time through goals by Hlulani Khuzwayo and Austine Mathonsi in the 24th and 29th minute. Zwoluga Mathavha netted SDA's opener.
Basel were unstoppable in the second half. Oswell Maluleke, Khuzwayo, Mathonsi and Meshack Matsinye added four more before Warrant Shirinda pulled one back for SDA late in the game.