FIRST TIMERS CHAKAZA PRIMARY SCHOOL WIN THROUGH TO THE DANONE NATIONS CUP NATIONAL FINALS

Chakaza Primary school from Mpumalanga booked their place in the Danone Nations Cup National Finals after beating Zikhuphule Primary School 2 – 1 on penalties in a thrilling Final this past weekend.  Neither team managed to score during regulation time.

Mxolisi Shongwe, Chakaza Primary School’s goalkeeper, was hailed as the hero of the team by coach, Thabiso Shabangu after saving two penalties which put them into the National Finals.

Shabangu said proudly:  “My team showed such determination.   Khayelisha is a small town near Nelspruit with no soccer facilities so we have to train on the local community sports fields.  Some kids have to walk far to get to practise but soccer keeps us busy and entertained. This win is a motivator and proves that dreams do come true.”

The team was assisted by the Mpumalanga Premier, Mr David Mabuza.  “We were supported by our Provincial Premier who booked us into a local guesthouse the day prior to the tournament so we were able to rest and prepare.  The local College further gave us soccer boots.”

Shabanu has no formal soccer qualifications but believes his passion for the beautiful game and hard work will help his team get to World Finals in Poland:  “Nothing is impossible,” said the excited coach.

RESULTS – MPUMALANGA PROVINCIAL FINALS

IMIZAMOYETHU PRIMARY SCHOOL (Gert Sibande Region)

MHLAHLE PRIMARY SCHOOL (Bohlabela Region)
ZIKHUPHULE PRIMARY SCHOOL (Middleburg Region)
CHAKAZA PRIMARY SCHOOL (Ehlanzeni Region)

Chakaza Primary School 1 vs Zikhuphule Primary School 2  

Imizamoyethu Primary School 0 (2) vs Mhlahle Primary School 0 (3)
Imizamoyethu Primary School 0 (2) vs Chakaza Primary School 0 (3)
Zikhuphule Primary School 1 vs Mhlahle Primary School 2
Mhlahle Primary School 0 vs  Chakaza Primary School 1
Zikhuphule Primary School 1 (1) vs  Imizamoyethu  Primary School 1 (2)

FINAL LOG POSTION

1^st – Zikhuphule Primary School – 4 pts
2^nd – Chakaza Primary School – 4 pts
3^rd – Mhlahle Primary School – 4 pts
4^th – Imizamoyethu Primary School – 3 pts

FINAL

Zikhuphule Primary School 0 (1) vs Chakaza Primary School 0 (2)