Highburry FC
By Karabo Marifi
Eastern Cape’s Highbury FC claimed the 2024 ABC Motsepe National Playoffs title after securing a 2-0 victory against Mpumalanga’s Kruger United in Upington, Northern Cape, this past Sunday. The triumph was no small feat, marking an extraordinary journey through the tournament.
Highbury’s Road to Victory
Highbury’s journey to the championship was marked by grit and resilience. The team had to overcome significant challenges to qualify for the playoffs. Their watershed moment came through the heroics of Mzoxolo Rafani, who netted a decisive brace in the final, not only securing the championship but also clinching the top goal scorer of the tournament accolade with three goals to his name.
The Eastern Cape community has every reason to celebrate Highbury’s success, considering the team was the last to qualify for the National Playoffs. On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Highbury sealed their position as Eastern Cape Champions with a crucial win. They then embarked on a swift journey to Upington to meet the registration deadline, setting the stage for their opening match.
Their determination paid off when they edged out Mangaung United from Free State 1-0 in their first match of the tournament. The victory was a prelude to their subsequent performance, where they went on to top Group B with one win and a draw, thus qualifying for the semi-finals.
In the semi-finals, Highbury demonstrated their tenacity by narrowly defeating Njampela FC of KwaZulu-Natal 1-0, earning their spot in the final.
Financial Rewards and Community Development
As champions, Highbury FC will receive R1.25 million. In line with the Motsepe Foundation’s commitment to community development, R250,000 of this prize money must be allocated towards regional football development.
Kruger United, the valiant runners-up, will be awarded R600,000, with a similar stipulation to invest R250,000 in their regional football projects.
Individual Accolades
Despite not winning the final, Kruger United’s Seun Ndlovu was honoured with the Player of the Tournament award, recognising his exceptional performance throughout the playoffs. The top goal scorer award went deservingly to Highbury’s Mzoxolo Rafani.
Referee excellence was also acknowledged with Maneo Tau being named Assistant Referee of the Tournament, while Tshidiso Mzwanazi took home the Referee of the Tournament award.
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