DTS secured their first MTC Hopsol u19 title by defeating Kasaona Football Academy in a penalty shootout. The match was a hard-fought encounter with few scoring opportunities. DTS goalkeeper Aubrey Cloete played a crucial role, making two significant saves during the penalty shootout. His heroics sealed the win for DTS, marking a successful end to their season.
Throughout the match, both teams had their share of chances. Brendon Kandanga and Vitario Brunzel came close for DTS, while Kasaona's keeper Amunondjamo Tjikotoke made a notable save at Kandanga's feet. Despite DTS's attacking efforts, Kasaona's defense managed to keep them at bay, resulting in a goalless draw at the end of regular time.
The second half saw DTS creating more opportunities, but they were unable to capitalize. McBride Kamundju also had a chance for Kasaona, but the match remained scoreless. The outcome was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, where Cloete's saves secured a 3-0 victory for DTS.
This win marks a significant milestone for DTS, as they had previously won the u15 and u17 titles but were yet to claim the u19 title. Additionally, they won the Bank Windhoek u21 title by defeating Kasaona FA in the final. Coach Mabasa Kufahakutizwi expressed his satisfaction with the win, highlighting the team's growth and confidence.
Kufahakutizwi attributed the team's success to their hard work and determination. He mentioned that the only loss of the season was against Collin Benjamin Soccer Talents, where DTS played with only 10 men due to player unavailability. The coach emphasized that the win would boost the team's confidence and make his job easier.
The MTC Hopsol u19 tournament also saw other teams competing for medals. Collin Benjamin Soccer Talents won the u19 bronze medal by beating Riverheights 1-0 in the third-place play-off. The prize-giving ceremony recognized individual and team achievements, including the u19 Most Valuable Player award, which went to Lebron Rikua of DTS.
The awards ceremony also honored other winners, including Josh Kanku of Ramblers as the top goalscorer with 19 goals, and Leo Scholz of Collin Benjamin Soccer Talents as the top goalkeeper. Windhoek Gymnasium won the team of the year award, while Kufahakutizwi received the coach of the year award. In the u17 category, Ronald Kandjou of Kasaona Football Academy was the top goalscorer, and Delton Tshipa of Dama Soccer Academy won the Most Valuable Player award.
Key points
- DTS won their first MTC Hopsol u19 title by defeating Kasaona Football Academy in a penalty shootout.
- The team's coach, Mabasa Kufahakutizwi, expressed his satisfaction with the win, highlighting the team's growth and confidence.
- The MTC Hopsol u19 tournament also recognized individual and team achievements during the prize-giving ceremony.
