Former Pirates keeper Brighton Mhlongo & coach Thabo Senong encouraged by scouts on the ground at Gauteng leg of Engen KOC
DEVELOPMENT
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies are among the top performers at the Engend KOC. | Supplied
Image: Supplied
DAY two of the 2025 Engen Knockout Challenge Gauteng leg is underway at Wits Marks Park Sports Ground, and the tournament continues to attract scouts and technical teams from some of the country’s top clubs all keeping a close eye on the rising talent on display.
Tournament ambassadors Brighton Mhlongo and Coach Thabo Senong expressed how encouraging it is to see experienced football professionals dedicating their time to support and guide the next generation.
“This tournament has always been about giving young players a chance to be seen and supported,” says Mhlongo.
“Seeing people from different clubs here, showing interest and giving these players just a portion of their time it reminds us why platforms like this matter. These are the moments that can shape a player’s journey.”
Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs in action at the Engen KOC. | Supplied
Image: Supplied
Coach Senong adds, “It’s inspiring to see coaches, scouts, and technical teams showing up and investing time in these young players. It shows how seriously youth development is being taken, and it also gives players confidence to perform, knowing there are people watching who believe in their potential.”
The 2025 campaign theme “It’s Your Moment, Future Diski Legends” continues to ring true, with players putting in strong performances and making the most of the opportunity to be seen on a competitive stage.
Among the experts on site are Mr Thanduxolo Zulu, former SAFA performance analyst and current Senior Men’s Football Head Coach at Wits University; Miss Nthabeleng Modiko, former Banyana Banyana captain and current Head Coach of the UJ Ladies team and the South African U-17 Women’s National Team; and Dr Jomo Sono, legendary striker turned coach, and Chairman and Founder of Jomo Cosmos Football Club
The Gauteng playoffs wrap up on Sunday, with teams battling for a spot at the 2025 Engen Champ of Champs, taking place from 3–5 October at the High-Performance Centre in Pretoria.