Aztec Masters edge Young Pirates in historic Sol Plaatje Masters Football League final
Aztec Masters were crowned 2025 Sol Plaatje Masters Football League champions after defeating Young Pirates 7–6 on penalties in a tense final at Galeshewe Stadium, marking the first title decided by shootout.
Image: Danie van der Lith
A fiercely contested showdown at Galeshewe Stadium on Sunday saw Aztec Masters crowned champions of the 2025 Sol Plaatje Masters Football League after a nail-biting penalty shootout against longtime rivals Young Pirates.
The clash between the leaders of streams A and B lived up to its billing, with both sides showcasing skill and determination in a thrilling spectacle for the supporters.
Aztec Masters drew first blood in the opening half, only for Young Pirates to respond with a well-taken equaliser, leaving the sides level at the break.
Both teams tried their best to break the 1-1 draw but it was not meant to be.
Image: Danie van der Lith
With neither team able to break the deadlock in the second half, the match went to penalties for the first time in the history of the league’s finals. This year, being so closely contested, the winner could not be decided by the away-goal rule, leaving a shootout to settle the score.
Both teams approached the spot-kicks with composure and intent, trading goals and making crucial saves that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. The decisive moment came courtesy of Aztec Masters goalkeeper Molehe Ledibane, who emerged as the hero – first saving a critical penalty, then watching as his team calmly slotted home the winning kick, securing a narrow 7-6 triumph.
An emotional crowd of supporters looks on as the penalty shootouts are underway.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Aztec Masters goalkeeper Molehe Ledibane is lifted onto the shoulders of Aztec supporters in celebration of their win.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Aztecs fans and players swarmed the field in jubilation, hoisting Ledibane into the air as champagne sprayed and celebrations echoed through the arena.
The trophy handover followed shortly after with loud cheers as Aztec Masters officially claimed the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League crown for 2025.
Aztec Masters captain Matlhomola Mpanza described the victory as one of pride and purpose, especially in their landmark year.
“It was a very difficult and tough game, but we are extremely happy to have won,” said Mpanza. “As we continue celebrating our 40th anniversary, we knew we had to give this victory as a present to the owner of the team and our loyal supporters. I am very happy that our supporters were behind us throughout the game. They wanted us to win, and we could feel their energy from the first whistle.”
Mpanza also expressed gratitude beyond the club.
“I want to thank the community for the incredible support on Sunday. At the end of the day, football was the winner.”
Some of the young supporters spared some time in their busy schedule. to pose for a photo.
Image: Danie van der Lith
“We would like to thank the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League for a very well organised final that took place at the Kimberley Galeshewe Stadium on Sunday,” said Mzwandile Zon Flatela, Head of the Competition Committee, as he went on to praise both the level of play and the spirit shown throughout the day.
According to Flatela, the final was incident free and well attended. He extended thanks to supporters from Greenpoint, Colville, Roodepan, Ritchie, and Riverton, as well as stadium vendors. He said the historic penalty decider demonstrated the rising standard and competitiveness in the league.
“This proves how tight the teams are to each other and the quality of soccer the top teams are playing. It is a sign that the Masters League is getting better and stronger each year.”
Sol Plaatje Masters Football League chairperson Seabata Makhele confirmed that the final was part of the play-off programme held on December 7 to determine the top eight positions for the 2025 season.
In other results Diamond Boys Masters defeated Real Madrid Masters 1-0 to take third place, Phutanang beat Colville Masters 4-2 for fifth, and Macarena secured seventh position with a 2-1 victory over Copper Masters.
The 2025 awards ceremony will take place on December 13 at the Savoy Hotel at 2pm, where Aztec Masters will be officially congratulated as the overall league winners following a grueling and closely contested season.
For now, Aztec Masters can enjoy the trophy and carry the name of the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League Champions with pride, but next year is coming, and there will be hungry teams wanting to claim that title.
Only time will tell who will put up their hands as the new 2026 winners.