The 11th annual Mabena Soccer Challenge will feature 32 teams this year, double the number that participated in previous editions. Matches will be played at Mashamba, and the tournament is set to kick off in August.
The increase in participating teams has been matched by a boost in prize money. According to one of the organisers, Ms Mercy Rambau, the winning team will receive R70,000, two soccer kits, a floating trophy and gold medals. The runners-up will walk away with R40,000, two soccer kits and silver medals. The third-placed team will receive R20,000, a soccer kit and bronze medals, while the team finishing fourth will get R10,000 and a soccer kit.
This year's participating teams are: Maelula United Brothers, SUPRO, Tshikhwani Stone Breakers, SAMSA, Mahagala Young Stars, Madridtas FC, Saudi FC, Mpheni Home Defenders Academy, Tshitavha Brave Lions, Mashamba Soccer Academy, Mukondeni Young Chiefs, Mukondeni Shooting Stars, Madombidzha Try Again, Valdezia FC, ABC FC, Chavani Shining Stars, Bush River, Madadzhi Eversmiling, Makhitha Oscar Stars, Bokisi Scientists, Magau United, SM United Brothers, Mashamba Benfica, Masakona Real Citizens, Berea FC, Eagles United, Muwaweni Lucky Stars, Koki FC, Vhembe Tron, Mashau Pull Together, Thohoyandou Bayern and Mphadzha FC.