By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Seen Here: Champions crowned, dreams realised. Mudagasi celebrate their Lerato Lamola Winter Games triumph after a dramatic penalty shootout victory, capping off a tournament that showcased elite township football, unearthed future stars and empowered local communities through the Reboost Energy Drink partnership. Photo Credit: Supplied
Johannesburg, South Africa — Mudagasi were crowned champions of the Reboost Energy Drink-powered Lerato Lamola Winter Games after edging 012 Ayifun’Wena 6-5 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a fiercely contested goalless final in Tembisa on Sunday, 28 June 2026.
The month-long tournament concluded on a high, celebrating not only the best of township football but also the growing role that grassroots competitions play in developing talent, strengthening communities and creating economic opportunities.
With both sides unable to break the deadlock during regulation time, the championship was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, where Mudagasi held their composure to lift the coveted trophy and claim the R150,000 winners’ prize.
A Showcase of Township Football Excellence
The Lerato Lamola Winter Games once again demonstrated why it has become one of Gauteng’s premier grassroots football tournaments.
Throughout the competition, emerging footballers displayed exceptional technical ability, determination and passion, reinforcing the depth of talent that exists within South Africa’s townships.
More importantly, the tournament continued to serve as a pathway to professional football, with this year’s edition already producing two players who have secured contracts with professional clubs.
Matome Mmolai has signed with Orlando Pirates, while Thabang “Trashyncky” Mabena has earned a move to Milford FC, highlighting the tournament’s growing reputation as a launchpad for future stars.
Reboost Energy Drink Expands Its Community Impact
This year’s edition marked the first partnership between the tournament and Reboost Energy Drink, a collaboration that extended well beyond branding and sponsorship.
Supporters were treated to engaging fan activations throughout the competition, with lucky spectators walking away with a variety of prizes that enhanced the festive matchday atmosphere.
However, the partnership’s greatest impact may have been off the field.
Local entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to sell Reboost Energy Drink products throughout the tournament, creating additional income streams for community vendors while contributing to local economic activity.
The initiative reflected a growing recognition that community football tournaments can become powerful vehicles for both sporting and economic development.
Investing Beyond the Game
Tournament founder Lerato Lamola praised the success of the partnership, describing it as a significant contributor to this year’s memorable tournament.
“Our partnership with Reboost Energy Drink elevated the experience—from the players and supporters to the local entrepreneurs who benefited from trading opportunities throughout the tournament,” Lamola said.
He congratulated Mudagasi on their championship triumph while thanking participating teams, volunteers, supporters and partners for contributing to another successful edition.
Lamola also highlighted the tournament’s continued ability to create life-changing opportunities for young footballers.
“We are proud to share that two players who participated in this year’s tournament have already secured professional contracts. These achievements reflect the growing stature of the tournament and the opportunities made possible through the support of valued partners like Reboost Energy Drink.”
Grassroots Football Remains the Future
Former Orlando Pirates captain and Reboost Energy Drink brand ambassador Innocent Maela said the quality of football throughout the competition reaffirmed the importance of investing in grassroots development.
“Every year you come here and you see players with incredible talent who simply need opportunities and platforms to showcase what they can do,” Maela said.
“That’s what makes the Lerato Lamola Winter Games such an important tournament because it gives young footballers hope and a stage to dream bigger.”
He also applauded Reboost Energy Drink for ensuring its involvement created benefits beyond football itself.
“By creating opportunities for local vendors and businesses to participate, they’ve shown that investing in community football can also create real economic impact.”
More Than a Tournament
As township football continues to produce some of South Africa’s brightest young prospects, the Lerato Lamola Winter Games has evolved into far more than a football competition.
It has become a platform where sporting excellence meets community empowerment, where aspiring professionals earn life-changing opportunities, and where local businesses benefit from increased economic activity.
Mudagasi’s championship victory will undoubtedly be remembered as the sporting highlight of the tournament, but the lasting legacy of the 2026 edition lies in the opportunities it created—both on and off the pitch.
With stronger partnerships, increasing community support and a growing track record of producing professional footballers, the Lerato Lamola Winter Games continues to prove that the future of South African football is being shaped long before players step onto the country’s biggest stages.
