The Safa Vhembe team in Stream E of the Hollywood Bet League, Muraleni United Brothers, has been sold.
Team secretary Goodwin Mahuwa confirmed that Venda Football Club (VFC), which competes in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, had purchased the franchise for their development side, VFC Academy.
Media and Marketing Manager Nelo Ntshudisane said the academy, starting with an U/21 boys' team, aimed to identify talent across the Vhembe region and surrounding areas. "The academy reflects the senior team's long-term vision of creating opportunities for young players to grow on and off the pitch, with coaching, mentoring, and structured development pathways," she said. Ntshudisane added that VFC Academy was set to become a centre for football excellence in Limpopo.
Head coach Justice Mutileni outlined plans to run grassroots programmes, scout talent, train elite squads, and maximise available facilities and equipment. "Our first goal is to develop squads for boys, giving them proper football training while teaching life skills. We hope to see some players progress to VFA," he said.
Matches will be held at Eltivillas and the Makhado Show Grounds. Mutileni will be assisted by former senior team goalkeeper coach Azwindini Maphaha.