South Africa’s top youth football talent will be on display this weekend when the 2026 Engen Knockout Challenge heads to Johannesburg, with some of the country’s biggest football clubs set to compete for provincial honours at Wits Marks Park from 17 to 19 July.
The draw for the Johannesburg leg of the prestigious youth football tournament was concluded on Tuesday, confirming a series of exciting group-stage fixtures in both the boys’ Under-18 and girls’ Under-20 competitions. Held under the campaign theme, “Where Diski Legends Start,” the tournament continues to serve as a platform for nurturing the nation’s future football stars.
Defending boys’ champions Panorama FC return to defend their title in a highly competitive field that features football giants Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, as well as TS Galaxy FC, Highlands Park, Siwelele FC and several other promising teams from across Gauteng.
The girls’ competition is equally anticipated, with reigning champions the University of Johannesburg aiming to retain their crown against strong opposition that includes Mamelodi Sundowns FC, TS Galaxy Queens, SAFA Academy and Kaizer Chiefs Ladies.
This year’s tournament also marks a significant milestone as Kaizer Chiefs Ladies make their Engen Knockout Challenge debut. It will be the team’s first appearance in the competition following the launch of the club’s women’s football team earlier this year.
Engen Knockout Challenge ambassador Brighton Mhlongo believes the Johannesburg tournament has consistently provided a launchpad for future stars of South African football.
“The Engen Knockout Challenge continues to create opportunities for young players to test themselves against the very best in the country. Johannesburg has always produced exceptional talent, and this weekend is another chance for these players to make their mark and show why this tournament remains true to its theme of Where Diski Legends Start,” said Mhlongo.
Boys’ Under-18 Group Draw
Group A features DBK Football Stars, Khathorus Hyper, Wits University FC and Kaizer Chiefs FC.
Defending champions Panorama FC headline Group B alongside Sanders United, Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Randburg FC.
Group C consists of TS Galaxy FC, University of Pretoria, Highlands Park FC and Prestige Football Academy.
Group D includes Siwelele FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Joburg City FC and Resa.
Girls’ Under-20 Group Draw
Group A sees defending champions University of Johannesburg face Mamelodi Sundowns FC, SAFA Academy and Rosina Sedibane.
Kaizer Chiefs Ladies have been drawn in Group B with Mamelodi XI Stars, Springs Home Sweepers and TUT FC.
Group C features Wits Ladies FC, University of Pretoria, JVW and Mito Stars Ladies.
Group D consists of TS Galaxy Queens, Future Stars Ladies, Panorama Ladies and Blue Birds FC.
With provincial bragging rights, talent scouts and a pathway to national recognition all on the line, the Johannesburg leg of the Engen Knockout Challenge promises three days of entertaining, high-quality youth football as the country’s next generation of stars looks to announce themselves on one of South Africa’s biggest development stages.