BILLY OCEAN FC CLAIM BUILD IT PLUS EFA U13 MBABANE CROWN
Billy Ocean F.C. were crowned champions of the Build It Plus EFA U13 Mbabane Championship after edging Diligens Academy 1–0 in a tightly contested final at Msunduza Sports Ground.
The championship brought together eight teams, divided into two groups, providing young footballers with an important platform to showcase their talent, competitiveness and passion for the game.
Group A comprised Mbabane Swallows F.C., Ntsetse Flyers F.C., Kasi Warriors F.C. and Rhumba Stars F.C., while Group B featured Diligens Academy, Billy Ocean F.C., Dark City F.C. and Lobamba Cosmo F.C.
The final lived up to expectations, with both sides producing a competitive encounter. Billy Ocean F.C.; however, found the crucial breakthrough to secure a narrow 1–0 victory and lift the championship trophy.
Despite finishing as runners-up, Diligens Academy enjoyed a successful tournament on an individual level, claiming several of the prestigious awards. Nkosiyazi Nkambule was crowned Top Goal Scorer, while Mark Ntezinde was named Best Goalkeeper.
Senzelwe Khumalo enjoyed an outstanding tournament, receiving both the Best Midfielder and Player of the Tournament awards. Billy Ocean F.C.’s Sicalo Shabangu was recognised as the tournament’s Best Defender.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony, EFA General Secretary Frederick Mngomezulu expressed his appreciation to the parents and families who supported the young players throughout the championship.
“We would like to sincerely thank the parents for allowing these young players to participate and, importantly, for attending this event. At this age, the encouragement they receive from their parents and the community is extremely important to their development,” said Mngomezulu.
He also highlighted the importance of creating an environment where every participant feels valued, regardless of whether they leave the tournament with a trophy.
“Football development is not only about winning trophies. It is also about building character, teamwork, discipline and confidence. We were pleased to see the spirit shown throughout the tournament, where the players encouraged and motivated one another, including those who did not win individual or team awards,” he added.
Mngomezulu further thanked Build It Plus for its continued investment in grassroots football, as well as the media, participating teams, parents, officials and other stakeholders for their contribution to the success of the championship.
“We are grateful to Build It Plus for partnering with the Eswatini Football Association in creating these opportunities for our young players. We also appreciate the media and all stakeholders who played their part in making this championship a success. Partnerships of this nature are essential if we are to continue strengthening the grassroots football pathway in Eswatini,” he said.
Build It Plus Mbabane Human Resource Manager Gladwin Hillary also acknowledged the collective effort behind the successful staging of the championship, emphasising the broader value of investing in grassroots football.
“Build It Plus is proud to be associated with a programme that gives young people an opportunity to develop themselves through football. We would like to acknowledge the Eswatini Football Association, the participating teams, coaches, parents, officials, media and everyone who contributed to making this championship a success,” said Hillary.
He noted that initiatives such as the U13 championship extend beyond the football pitch and can contribute to the development of young people and communities.
“Football has the ability to bring people together, develop discipline and teamwork, and create opportunities for young people. When we invest in programmes such as this, we are not only investing in football; we are contributing to the socio-economic development of the country by helping to develop responsible, confident and talented young people,” Hillary added.
The Build It Plus EFA U13 Mbabane Championship continues to provide an important platform for young players to gain competitive experience, develop their football abilities and build a strong foundation for the future of Eswatini football.
Awards
Champions: Billy Ocean F.C.
Runners-up: Diligens Academy
Player of the Tournament: Senzelwe Khumalo — Diligens Academy
Best Midfielder: Senzelwe Khumalo — Diligens Academy
Best Defender: Sicalo Shabangu — Billy Ocean F.C.
Best Goalkeeper: Mark Ntezinde — Diligens Academy
Top Goal Scorer: Nkosiyazi Nkambule — Diligens Academy
The Mbabane championship is the seventh of eight tournaments on this year’s Build It EFA U13 calendar, which continues to provide grassroots players with competitive opportunities and platforms for talent identification across Eswatini.
The Eswatini Football Association thanks Build It for its continued investment in youth football and congratulates Billy Ocean F.C. on a well-deserved victory.