The opening matches of the Zwonaka Zwa Hamakhale Soccer Tournament will be played at the Tshivhilwi Bonders Grounds this weekend. The tournament was officially launched on Saturday, with organisers announcing that 32 teams from across the Vhembe region will participate in this year's edition.
On Saturday, Gondeni FC and Rambuda Young Fighters will kick off the tournament at 09:00. They will be followed by FC Basel and Tshivhilwi Young Stars at 11:00. The afternoon fixtures will see Makonde FC take on Masokolara FC, while the final match of the day will be between Tshaulu Powerlines and Musasenda Big Five.
Sunday's programme will open with LG Discovery FC playing against Tshibvumo FC. The most anticipated clash of the day will be between defending champions Berea FC and Tshituni FC.
The other two Sunday fixtures are Matondoni Home Sweepers vs Matangari High Aims, and Tshivhilwi Young Bombers vs SMSA. SMSA are widely regarded as the tournament's dark horses and have been tipped as potential champions.
This year's winners will walk away with R20,000, a floating trophy, a soccer kit, gold medals and a soccer ball. The runners-up will receive R10,000, a soccer kit and silver medals. All teams reaching the quarter-finals will also receive prizes.