eMalahleni – Lynville Stadium in eMalahleni was bustling with anticipation as Mpumalanga and Eswatini came together to co-host the Red Card for GBV soccer tournament on August 3, 2024.
This event transcended mere soccer; it stood as a formidable endeavour aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) within communities.
The tournament featured an exciting lineup of teams, including TUT eMalahleni FC, Middleburg FC, Nsingizini Hotspurs, and the Swazi Premier League champions, Mbabane Swallows. The games were intense and showcased incredible talent and sportsmanship.
In the semi-finals, TUT eMalahleni displayed remarkable resilience and determination against Mbabane Swallows. Despite their efforts, they narrowly lost 5-4 in a gripping penalty shootout. The final match saw Nsingizini Hotspurs crowned as the GBV Awareness Cup Champions after they triumphed over Mbabane Swallows with a 1-0 victory.
The tournament was graced by notable figures such as the Mayor of Pongola, CCLR BJ Thwala, Bernard Parker, Derrick Shiba, Abel Shongwe, and Chief Sipho Mahlangu from SoGutjhe Royal House in KwaNdebele. Their presence added prestige and highlighted the importance of the cause.
The day was filled with entertainment, including performances by cheerleaders, TUT idol Asanda, and the Egyptian Boyz. The vibrant atmosphere kept the crowd engaged and enthusiastic throughout the event.
The event brought top teams and influencers together to emphasise the need for collective action. It underscored the importance of using sports as a platform to address serious social issues and promote positive change.
The success of the Red Card for GBV soccer tournament at Lynville Stadium demonstrates the power of community and sport in tackling important social issues. While Nsingizini Hotspurs celebrated victory, the true triumph was the increased awareness and unity against gender-based violence.
This event will be remembered not only for the thrilling soccer matches but also for its impact on the fight against GBV. Mpumalanga and Eswatini have shown that by uniting, significant differences can be made in communities, bringing hope to those affected by gender-based violence.
