FNB were crowned champions of the Senzokuhle Tournament 2025 on 14 December 2025 after edging Royal Tigers on penalties following a goalless final. The two-day tournament, featuring 32 local teams, drew large crowds despite rainy conditions.
What Happened?
The Senzokuhle Tournament, staged across Baleni and Duff Sport Grounds, brought together 32 teams during the festive season. Matches were played under cloudy and rainy weather, yet the competition ran successfully and delivered high-quality football.
FNB sealed the title in the final after a 0–0 draw against Royal Tigers, winning 5–4 on penalties. The victory capped an impressive knockout run that showcased discipline, resilience, and defensive solidity.
Prize Money
- Champions: R10,000, full soccer kit, two balls, trophy, gold medals
- Runner-up: R5,000 and silver medals
- Third place: R3000
- FNB’s Road to the Title
- Round of 32: White City 0–0 FNB (FNB won 5–4 on penalties)
- Round of 16: Sisonke Legend 0–2 FNB
- Quarter-finals: Dumbe (Try Luckys) 0–0 FNB (FNB won 5–4 on penalties)
- Semi-finals: Big Eleven 1–1 FNB (FNB won 5–4 on penalties)
- Final: Royal Tigers 0–0 FNB (FNB won 5–4 on penalties)
Tournament stats:
- Matches played: 5
- Wins: 5
- Goals conceded: 1
- Clean sheets: 4
Day 1 Wrap-Up: Shocks and Strong Starts
The opening day delivered surprise results and strong performances. Junior FC were knocked out by Casino on penalties, losing 4–2 after a draw. Fruit FC advanced comfortably after defeating Buffalo FC.
Tournament favourites Big Eleven progressed after eliminating FC City Stars, striking the woodwork twice before scoring from a corner early in the second half.
Other Day 1 Results
- Young Chiefs 0 (5) – 0 (3) DA
- Duff United 2–1 Hungry Lion
- Black Poison 1–0 Nkantina FC
- PSG 1 (5) – 1 (4) Lucky Birds
- Royal Tigers 3–0 L. Khanyayo
- Eleven Attackers 1–0 Congo FC
Duff United stood out as the only team to win two opening matches, booking a quarter-final place on day two.
Day 2 Wrap-Up: Celebrations and Surprises
Semi-Finals Drama
Semi-final 1: Royal Tigers and Duff United drew 1–1 at Duff Sport Ground. Royal Tigers advanced 5–4 on penalties.
Semi-final 2: FNB eliminated Big Eleven 5–4 on penalties after a 1–1 draw at Baleni Sport Ground. A late FNB equalizer shifted momentum and proved decisive.
Official Response
Mr Chris Ncamane told the champions,FNB that they deserved to win after fighting the whole tournament. He emphasized that the tournament is not about business but promoting local talent and local football specifically in Bizana.
Community Impact
Beyond football, the Senzokuhle Tournament created temporary job opportunities for local families. Vendors sold food and beverages at both venues, helping many earn income during the festive season.
Supporters arrived in large numbers to back their teams. Rain and wind failed to dampen spirits, underlining the community’s deep love for the game and the tournament’s role in promoting unity.
