King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality successfully hosted the 2025/26 ABC Motsepe League National Play-Offs at the Jerald Hawkes Stadium (formerly Mthatha Stadium) from 1–7 June 2026.
The prestigious tournament brought together nine provincial champions from across South Africa, competing in group-stage matches and knockout rounds for promotion to the National First Division (NFD). The event showcased some of the country’s finest amateur football talent while highlighting Mthatha’s growing reputation as a destination capable of hosting major sporting events.
Teams participating in the tournament included FC Ravens (Eastern Cape), Mkhambathi FC (KwaZulu-Natal), Northwest University Soccer Institute (Northwest), Sea Point Swifts/ Hope FC (Western Cape), NC Professionals (Northern Cape), Luthuli Brigades (Mpumalanga), LA Masia (Gauteng), Mangaung United (Free State), and Mpheni Defenders (Limpopo).
The Eastern Cape was represented by FC Ravens from Bizana, who unfortunately exited the tournament during the group stages. Despite their early elimination, the team proudly represented the province on the national stage.
The tournament generated significant economic activity for Mthatha and surrounding areas, attracting football supporters from various provinces and creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city. Local businesses, accommodation establishments, transport operators, restaurants, and informal traders benefited from the influx of visitors during the week-long event.
In the semi-finals, Northwest University Soccer Institute secured a place in the final after defeating Mkhambathi FC 2–1, while Hope FC booked their spot with an impressive 4–1 victory over NC Professionals.
The final delivered an exciting contest between Hope FC and Northwest University Soccer Institute. After a tightly contested match, Hope FC emerged as the 2025/26 ABC Motsepe League National Champions, claiming a dramatic 5–4 victory on penalties. Both Hope FC and Northwest University Soccer Institute earned promotion to the National First Division (NFD).
Speaking at the tournament, Executive Mayor Cllr. G. N. Nelani expressed his enthusiasm in the successful hosting of the national event.
“Mthatha has once again demonstrated its ability to host major sporting events and welcome visitors from across South Africa. Football remains deeply rooted in our community, and this tournament provided an opportunity to celebrate the sport while showcasing our city’s hospitality and infrastructure,” said the Mayor.
He further noted that Mthatha has long been recognised as a football-loving city, with a rich sporting heritage dating back to the days of Bush Bucks.
The champions, Hope FC, walked away with prize money of R1 250 million, while runners-up Northwest University Soccer Institute received R750,000. The successful hosting of the tournament further cements KSD Municipality’s commitment to promoting sport, local economic development, and social cohesion through major events.
