UJ, Sundowns crowned Engen Knockout Challenge GP Champs

The Engen Knockout Challenge champions of Gauteng were officially crowned on Sunday at the Marks Park Sports Ground, after defending champions, University of Johannesburg defended their title in the ladies division, while Mamelodi Sundowns became the new champions in the boys division.

After three days of exciting youth football action, South Africa’s leading youth football competition drew to a close in spectacular fashion as both sides celebrated their victories that also secured them a place at the Engen Champ of Champs later this year.

UJ, who lifted the title for the third time in succession had to sweat for their victory against JVW with a hard-fought 1-0 victory that saw the University side defend their crown.

The defending champions were also in great form in the semifinals when they easily brushed aside their rivals, University of Pretoria 5-0 on enroute to the finals.

The tournament was officially concluded with a highly entertaining final between TS Galaxy - who had a fantastic run in the tournament, facing Mamelodi Sundowns.

Both sides had equal chances of sealing the victory during the match but some quality defending and goalkeeping from either side resulted in the title being decided on penalties, which went Sundowns’ way with a 5-4 victory.

The Pretoria side earlier met with Orlando Pirates in the semifinals where both sides played some exciting football, but better finishing from Sundowns saw them advance to the final with a 1-0 victory.

Engen also rewarded exceptional individual performances of the tournament in both the boys and girls divisions.