25 May 2024– The South African U15 girls’ national team will return home today with continental silverware after their triumphant performance at the CAF African Schools Football Championship held in Zanzibar on Saturday night.

In a thrilling final at the packed Amaan Stadium, Coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo’s team clinched the title by defeating Morocco 5-4 on penalties. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Coach Khumalo expressed immense pride in her players: “I would like to extend my gratitude for the opportunity that allowed these young girls to be in a competition like this, which also helped us to discover such talent. The girls showed that they can do so much more if they are given a platform like this to showcase their talent.”

She went on to thank the various organizations and individuals who supported the team: “I would like to thank SAFA, CAF, the Motsepe Foundation, the parents, the sponsors, and our supporters back home. I would also like to thank the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, the Department of Basic Education, and all the people who were involved in making sure that our kids participated in this tournament. Everything went well, they are safe, happy, and they are now CAF African Schools Football Championship champions.”

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan congratulated the team, highlighting the significance of their achievement for the country