In a commanding display, Untouchable Stars Football Academy triumphed over Konke okuhle soccer academy with a resounding 4-1 victory in their tournament away match held at Cloverdene on 23 November 2024. The match kicked off at 4:30pm, and the Stars showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity throughout the encounter.
The Stars lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to maximise their offensive capabilities while maintaining a robust defensive structure. Nicol Zimandze took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Tshogofatso Mokoena and Njabulo Mzaza as right and left defenders, respectively, with Hloni Mvala and Tumisho Chiloane forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Gift Nkuna operated centrally, flanked by Candy Shop on the right and Veve Mayoyo on the left, while the attacking trio featured Kabelo Moeketsi on the right forward, Deleki Lwando as the central striker, and Kabelo Tladi on the left forward. The formation allowed for fluid transitions between defence and attack, with the wingers expected to stretch the play and create opportunities for the strikers.
The match began with an electric atmosphere, and it didn't take long for the Stars to make their mark. In the 12th minute, Veve Mayoyo opened the scoring with a stunning direct free-kick from outside the box, curling the ball past the wall and into the net with his right foot. This early goal set the tone for the Stars, who looked confident and composed in their play.
However, the momentum shifted slightly when Konke okuhle managed to equalise in the 39th minute. A fluke goal from the opponents, scored with a right-footed effort, caught the Stars' defence off guard and brought the score to 1-1 just before half-time. Despite this setback, the Stars remained undeterred and went into the break with their heads held high.
As the second half commenced, the Stars quickly regained their lead. Just seven minutes in, in the 52nd minute, Candy Shop found the net with a long-range strike, assisted by Veve Mayoyo's precise cross. The right midfielder's effort from outside the box showcased his striking ability and restored the Stars' advantage.
The Stars continued to dominate proceedings, and in the 76th minute, Candy Shop struck again, this time with another long-range effort. Assisted by Tshogofatso Mokoena's long pass, Candy Shop's right-footed shot from outside the box left the goalkeeper with no chance, extending the lead to 3-1.
In the closing stages of the match, Veve Mayoyo capped off an outstanding performance by scoring his second goal of the game in the 43rd minute, following a short pass from Kabelo Moeketsi. This long-range strike further solidified the Stars' dominance, bringing the final score to 4-1.
The referee, Kgomotso, oversaw the match, which saw a total of 100 spectators in attendance, all of whom witnessed a thrilling display of football from the Untouchable Stars. The victory not only highlighted the team's attacking flair but also showcased their resilience in bouncing back after conceding the equaliser. With this performance, the Stars have firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.
