Orlando Pirates Under-18 is gearing up for the highly-anticipated Gauteng leg of the 2023 Engen Knockout Challenge (EKOC), which takes place this coming weekend at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia, Johannesburg.
The tournament, which has been instrumental in showcasing the country’s young football, talent returns for its 21st edition, with the young Buccaneers among the 16 title hopefuls in the Under-18 boys competition.
After a disappointing exit in the competition’s previous instalment, they will be determined to improve on their performance and go even further, having made it to the last four before their journey came to an unceremonious end when they were eliminated through a technicality despite managing to overcome semifinal opponents, School of Excellence in a penalty shootout.
A replay of that semifinal is on the cards in this year’s tournament, with the two semifinalists from last year drawn in Group B alongside Rosina Sedibane Sports School and Dlamini XI Experience.
Pirates begin their campaign on Friday morning against Rosina Sedibane, followed by their second group game against Dlamini XI Experience later in the day. They conclude their opening round fixtures with their clash against School of Excellence, which kicks off on Saturday morning.
The Bucs U18 side will be skippered by a familiar face in wingback Jabulani Mokone, who has featured in the Club’s DStv Diski Challenge outfit, having joined the Soweto Giants after turning out for School of Excellence in the 2022 edition of the competition.
Pirates have tasted successful in the Engen Knockout Challenge,
having emerged as champions on three previous occasions, and will be determined to add a fourth title to their collection.
The tournament promises to be an exciting showcase of emerging talent and a platform for
young players to make a name for themselves.
EKOC 2023: Orlando Pirates U18 Group B Fixtures
Friday, 7 July
● Orlando Pirates U18 vs Rosina Sedibane U18 – Kick-off at 9:15 on Field D
● Orlando Pirates U18 vs Dlamini XI Experience U18 – 15:15 on Field B
Saturday, 8 July
● Orlando Pirates U18 vs School of Excellence U18 – 8:00 on Field D
