SHAKA EASTER TOURNAMENT ROARS BACK TO LIFE IN MABOPANE

Molototsi United coach Isaac “Wacko” Senyolo

By: Refilwe Sebola

The Shaka Easter Tournament resumes this weekend, with the spotlight firmly returning to the pitch—where dreams of lifting the million-rand prize are very much alive.

This comes after a temporary stoppage caused by disputes and protests among participating clubs. Now that the dust has settled, the highly anticipated football spectacle is back on track, promising fireworks in Mabopane.

Hosted by businessman Shaka, the tournament has attracted 64 teams from across South Africa and even Lesotho, turning Mabopane into a buzzing football hub.

With the competition now at the quarterfinal stage, the pressure is on, the stakes are high, and every team left standing can almost taste the R1 million prize.

One of the standout clashes will see Molototsi United from Bolobedu lock horns with Thembisa outfit Sthembiso in what is expected to be a proper kasi derby atmosphere—full of passion, pride, and no holding back.

Molototsi United have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, showing grit and determination under the guidance of coach Isaac ‘Wacko’ Senyolo. The seasoned mentor believes his boys have what it takes to go all the way—and so far, they are backing it up on the pitch.

Their road to the quarterfinals has been nothing short of dramatic. They edged Villa FC 1-0 in a tight contest, before surviving a five-goal thriller against Royal Pirates, winning 3-2. But their biggest test came against Tzaneen United, where nerves of steel were needed as they held on for a 3-2 penalty shootout victory after a 1-1 draw.

Now, all roads lead to Shaka Stadium this Sunday, where Molototsi United face Sthembiso in a do-or-die encounter. With confidence high and momentum on their side, the Bolobedu outfit will be looking to keep their dream alive. But in knockout football, anything can happen—and Sthembiso will be ready to spoil the party.

With the issues behind them and the tournament back in full swing, Mabopane is set for a weekend of top kasi football, big tackles, and even bigger dreams. The race for glory is on.