Phola Rovers Edge Marongwane Vikings 5-4 on Penalties to Win Mrupe Tournament Finals

Phola Rovers are the 2026 Mrupe tournament champions after a tense penalty shootout win over Morongwane Vikings at Phola Stadium on 28 June 2026. After a goalless 0-0 draw in normal time, Phola Rovers held their nerve to win 5-4 on penalties and claim the R30,000 first prize.

It was a fair, open final with both sides creating chances. Nomcebo of Phola Rovers tried several times to break the deadlock, but Marongwane Vikings defence stood firm. With no goals after 90 minutes, the final went straight to penalties.

Goal scorers from Marongwane Vikings were Ntokozo, Respond, Pitso, Ndumiso unfortunately Suprian missed his penalty shoot.

All those who were chosen from Phola Rovers for the shootout scored: Junior, Khathaza, Jonny, Brian and Dingane.

Phola Rovers goalkeeper Lebu was injured after saving a penalty.

Mam'khize the Secretary of Mrupe Tournament confirmed the full payout structure: 

1st R30,000, 2nd R20,000, 3rd R10,000, 4th R5,000 and 5th-7th R2,000 each. 

Speaking after the match, Mam Khize said, “The tournament was played in a good spirit. It was a fair game. Both teams played very well and tried to score. Even though it ended 0-0, the football was exciting and the penalties gave the crowd something to remember. We want to reward all teams who participated, from first to seventh place.”

EFF Provincial Chairperson Collen Sedibe Praises Community members, who attended the final, commended the organisers and players. “This is needed in the communities, young people coming together through sport. Marongwane Vikings and Phola Rovers showed discipline, respect and talent, to take it to penalties shows how evenly matched they were. Congratulations to Phola Rovers and well done to Marongwane Vikings for a strong fight,” congratulated Collen Sedibe.

 Phola Rovers supporters erupted when Dingane scored the winning penalty. “We came here believing and the boys delivered,” said Skhulile Mhaule, Phola Rovers Coach. “It was stressful watching 0-0, but we trusted them in penalties. R30,000 is big for the team and the community.”

The team players and Supporters sang along after the trophy was lifted

Marongwane Vikings supporters were disappointed but proud. “0-0 was tough and losing on penalties hurts,” expressed Linda a Marongwane Vikings supporter. Muzi added "Nomcebo Zikode worked the whole game, we’ll be back next year to take that trophy, at least we go home with R20,000.”

Phola Rovers walk away champions, while Marongwane Vikings take R20,000 as runners-up.