The Knock-Out Stages of the 2025 GKEPF–JMF U19 Cup began on 8 December, following an action-packed Group Stage that showcased exceptional youth football talent across the Greater Kruger landscape. From Welverdiend to Acorn-Oaks, teams competed fiercely, and supporters filled stadiums with excitement and pride.

Eight teams advanced to the Knock-Out Stages:
Mhala Academy, Morhotso Home Stars, Tlhavekisa Happy Boys, Fast Eleven, Sekhukhune FC, Dingledale Cosmos, Rolle Cosmos and Wonderous FC.

Matches are currently under way at the Thulamahashe New Stadium and will continue until 13 December. The finals will be broadcast live on SuperSport Channel 216 and SABC+ on 12–13 December, with fixtures from 8–11 December streamed on the SuperSport Schools app.

Organisers have encouraged the public to come out in full support, adding that the energy from local fans continues to uplift and motivate the young players. Special thanks have been extended to partners, donors, coaches and volunteers for their commitment to the tournament’s success.

Happy Boys to Semi-Finals

Mpumalanga ABC Motsepe League defender Harry Ndlovu was the hero of the day on 9 December, sending Tlhavekisa Happy Boys FC into the semi-finals after saving two penalties in a thrilling James Mayinga U19 Tournament fixture.

The tournament,  has brought together the top eight male football teams fighting for a grand prize of R20 000, along with a trophy, medals and a full soccer kit.

Happy Boys, the defending champions, overcame Welverdiend’s Wonderous FC in dramatic fashion. The match ended 2–2 in normal time, with Harry himself scoring Happy Boys’ second goal before Wonderous FC equalised just five minutes before the final whistle. In the penalty shootout, Harry proved unstoppable — saving two penalties while another Wonderous attempt struck the crossbar — securing a 3–0 victory on penalties.

The impressive performance has boosted Happy Boys’ confidence as they advance into the final rounds of the competition.

Today, 10 December at 15:00, Dingledale Cosmos of the Thulamahashe Football Association will face the unpredictable Fast XI FC from Welverdiend in what promises to be another exciting Knock-Out clash.

Fast XI FC Dump Cosmos in Dramatic Finish

Wednesday’s fixture between Fast XI FC and Dingledale Cosmos was one of the standout matches of the tournament. The game was fast, physical and fiercely competitive, with Cosmos opening the scoring in the 48th minute. Fast XI fought back, and striker Martziburgh netted a late equaliser in the 84th minute to force a penalty shootout.

Fast XI goalkeeper Sasco, who plays for Zebras FC in the ABC Motsepe League, delivered a commanding performance during the shootout, guiding his team to a 4–2 victory and knocking Cosmos out of the competition.

Wonderous FC and Dingledale Cosmos, both strong performers in the earlier rounds, have now exited the tournament and shift their focus back to league commitments.

With the Knock-Out Stages progressing and the final just days away, excitement continues to build across Bushbuckridge and the Greater Kruger region. The journey to the 2025 U19 Cup title is heating up — and local football fans are eagerly watching every moment.