The 32nd edition of the annual tournament – Philly’s Games – roared to life in grand style on Wednesday, December 20th, at the Ema Seven football ground in Ivory Park.
Over 7,000 passionate fans packed the stands, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the opening day’s four mouth-watering fixtures.
The opening match saw local rivals Cheese FC and Skepe-Nketole battle to a goalless draw. Both teams will have to wait for the second leg to settle the score and determine who advances to the next round.
The 2023 DStv Ekasi Champ of Champs winners, Phaphama FC from Mpumalanga, faced off against local side Abarondoli, led by former Orlando Pirates striker Jerry Sikhosana. The game was a nail-biter, with Phaphama twice coming from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw.
The afternoon’s 2pm kick-off saw newcomers Sunrise FC steal the show, defeating The Hot B Team 3-2. This impressive victory gives them a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.
The final game of the day pitted Daveyton’s Izidla Mlilo against Tembisa’s Amandla FC, a previous tournament champion. Amandla lived up to their billing, claiming a decisive 2-0 victory in the first leg.
WHO MEETS ON DAY TWO OF THE PHILLY’S GAMES
Football fans can expect even more excitement on Day Two, with several intriguing matchups on the schedule. Soweto Super United will take on Alexander’s Gomora United, while Mudagasi FC faces Marashia. Later in the afternoon, Naseem Aca7 will lock horns with Musa United, and the day will conclude with a highly anticipated clash between Mambas FC, led by the legendary Xolani Blackberry Nkala, and MFDN Global.
With so much talent on display and the competition wide open, the 32nd edition of the Philly’s Games promises to be a memorable one. The games will run until January 2 in Tembisa.
Full Results: Skepe Nketole 0-0 Cheese FC; Abarondoli 2-2 Phaphama FC; Sunrise FC 3-2 Hot B Team; Izidlamlilo 0-2 Amandla.
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