In an exhilarating tournament clash at Cloverdene on 23 November 2024, Untouchable Stars Football Academy faced off against Kop & Tail FC, with the match concluding in a dramatic 2-2 draw after 90 minutes of intense action. The encounter was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, where Untouchable Stars triumphed 5-4, securing their place in the next round.
The Untouchable Stars lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Nicol Zimandze took his position in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Tshogofatso Mokoena on the right, Tumisho Chiloane and Hloni Mvala in central defence, and Hlelo Buta on the left. The midfield trio featured Candy Shop on the right, Veve Mayoyo centrally, and Njabulo Mzaza on the left, while the attacking front three comprised Kabelo Moeketsi on the right, Deleki Lwando as the central striker, and Kabelo Tladi on the left. The formation aimed to exploit width and create goal-scoring opportunities through quick transitions and overlapping runs.
The bench included Mpilo Nkosi, who would later be called upon to make an impact.
The match began with both teams displaying a cautious approach, but it was Kop & Tail FC who broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. A defensive mistake from Untouchable Stars allowed the opponents to capitalise, scoring from close range with a right-footed shot that left Zimandze with no chance. The goal injected urgency into the Stars' play as they sought to equalise before the half-time whistle.
As the first half drew to a close, the score remained 1-0 in favour of Kop & Tail FC, with the referee, Ernest, signalling the end of the first 45 minutes shortly after the goal.
The second half saw Untouchable Stars come out with renewed vigour. Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when Deleki Lwando found the net, heading home a precise cross from Kabelo Moeketsi. This equaliser sent the Untouchable Stars bench into raptures, and the momentum shifted in their favour.
Just two minutes later, a tactical substitution saw Mpilo Nkosi replace Lwando, as the Stars aimed to maintain their attacking threat. The tactical switch proved effective, as in the 72nd minute, Kabelo Moeketsi scored again, this time converting a long pass from Veve Mayoyo inside the box with a composed right-footed finish. The Stars now led 2-1, and the crowd sensed a potential victory.
However, the drama was far from over. In the dying moments of the match, Kop & Tail FC struck back in the 88th minute, equalising with a well-placed right-footed shot from inside the box. The late goal sent the match into a tense conclusion, with both teams aware that penalties loomed if the score remained level.
As the final whistle blew, the score stood at 2-2, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Untouchable Stars displayed composure under pressure, converting five penalties to Kop & Tail FC's four, thus sealing a hard-fought victory and progression in the tournament.
The standout performers for Untouchable Stars included Veve Mayoyo, Kabelo Moeketsi, and Hloni Mvala, all of whom played pivotal roles in the match. Their contributions were vital in a game that showcased the resilience and determination of the Untouchable Stars Football Academy.
