Makhosi Ground in Gwabalanda drew a lively crowd over the weekend as Makhandeni Pirates clinched the Emakhandeni-Luveve Under-25 Football Tournament title.

They edged Luve FC 5-4 in a penalty shootout after the final ended 0-0 in normal time. The event was organized by Emakhandeni-Luveve Constituency MP Hon. Discent Collins Bajila and featured six youth teams from Emakhandeni, Lobengula, Luve and Gwabalanda. It created an opportunity for young players to display their skills and compete at a high level. AIDS Healthcare Foundation and the National AIDS Council supported the tournament, which also promoted community health messaging alongside sport.

Makhandeni Pirates advanced to the final with a strong showing in Group One. They started with a 2-0 win over Emakhandeni SDA and followed it with another 2-0 victory against Seza Academy in a key group match. Seza Academy had opened their account with a 3-0 win over Emakhandeni SDA, but Pirates’ two wins gave them maximum points and top spot in the group.

Seza Academy finished second. In Group Two, Luve FC proved the most consistent side with two 1-0 wins against Tshaka Juniors. Their last group fixture against Gwabalanda FC finished 1-1, leading to a penalty shootout to decide the group winner. Luve FC held their composure to win 5-4 on penalties and secure a place in the final.

Gwabalanda FC claimed third place after a 2-1 victory over Seza Academy in the playoff at Chigumira Shops. The final at Makhosi Ground was tightly contested. Both Makhandeni Pirates and Luve FC created chances, but neither side managed to score during regulation time. With the match still goalless, the title was settled from 12 yards. Makhandeni Pirates scored five penalties to Luve FC’s four to take the trophy.

The tournament also celebrated off-field contributions. Luve Juniors received the HIV Awareness Award for encouraging the largest number of supporters to undergo HIV testing. Seza Academy were awarded the People’s Choice Award after receiving the most votes on the Constituency WhatsApp Channel.

The atmosphere at Makhosi Ground reflected the growing appetite for community sport in Bulawayo’s high-density suburbs. Supporters from all four participating areas turned out in large numbers, creating a festival-like environment that extended beyond the pitch.

The tournament provided a safe and constructive space for young people during the school break, while also strengthening relationships between neighboring communities.

For several players, it was their first experience of organized competition under floodlights and with formal officiating, giving them a taste of higher-level football.

Organisers said the success of the inaugural event has already sparked discussions about making it an annual fixture on the constituency calendar. Hon. Bajila emphasised that sport will remain a key pillar of youth development in Emakhandeni-Luveve, with plans to introduce coaching clinics, referee training, and mentorship sessions for players who showed promise during the tournament.

With partners like AHF and NAC committed to continuing their support, the competition is expected to expand its reach while maintaining its dual focus on sporting excellence and public health education.

The event showcased the wealth of young football talent across Bulawayo’s neighborhoods and demonstrated how grassroots tournaments can develop future players while advancing health awareness and community participation.