By Phenyo Mokgothu and Lerato Tshweu

The North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute's under-21 team is gearing up for a thrilling challenge as they prepare to compete in the Pirates Cup tournament, one of South Africa's most esteemed youth soccer competitions.

Set to kick off at the Wits Marks Park Sports Grounds, the tournament promises intense matches starting on 28 March.

In the first round the team will face formidable opponents, including Vhembe Cora Academy, TUT Emalahleni and Midlands Academy.

Involvement in the Pirates Cup signifies more than just a chance to compete for the NWU team – it's an opportunity to etch a new chapter in the university's football history.

With an impressive record of 10 wins out of 11 regional league games and a remarkable goal difference of 21, the team enters the tournament with confidence.

Coach Lindani Nkabinde says the hardworking and devoted team is determined to do their best. He believes this prestigious event is also a stepping stone for players aiming to reach professional ranks.

The Pirates Cup tournament is a fantastic opportunity for teams to come together and compete at the highest level. So competitive has this tournament been over the years, that only one team has been able to successfully defend its title and that was Orlando Pirates in 2017 and 2018.

Since then, the competition has seen a different team win every year, with Stars of Africa claiming bragging rights in 2023, when Farouk Khan’s side defeated Orbit College in a nail-biting final.

This year's tournament boasts participation from renowned clubs such as Orlando Pirates FC, SuperSport United, Orbit FC, and JDR Stars.

The NWU Soccer Institute’s under-21 team is ready to take on the Pirates Cup tournament.