By Nkhensani Mthombeni
- USA beat France 10-9 in penalties after a 0-0 draw to win the grannies football tournament.
- Founder Beka Ntsanwisi, battling cancer, said politicians must stay away from her funeral if they didn’t support her now.
The New England Breakers from the United States of America (USA) were crowned champions of the second Grannies International Football Tournament (GIFT) after a nail-biting final against Les Zamies Foot from France at Nkowankowa Stadium in Limpopo.
The match ended in a goalless draw, but the Breakers won 10-9 in a tense penalty shootout.
The heartbreak for the French team came when their captain and fan favourite Patricia Vittorelli missed her penalty, handing the win to the Americans.
Even though they lost, the French team played better during regular time, creating more chances and showing greater speed. But it wasn’t enough to break the deadlock.
Christina Matson, 67, from the USA, was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
“I knew we stood a chance of winning, but one can never be too confident, seeing that the French team were tough opponents,” she told Scrolla.Africa:
Breakers coach Allison Pepe also praised their rivals: “The French were tough competitors, we are happy to take home the trophy,” she said.
Kenya’s Elizabeth Tala was named the oldest player of the tournament at 88 years old. She still walks and runs without any help. Lillian Zulu from Zambia took the Best Midfielder title, while Kenya’s Getrude Mutai scored the most goals with eight.
The tournament kicked off on Wednesday with 20 teams — eight from other countries and 12 from South Africa. It wasn’t just about football.
On the first day, teams wore traditional clothing, showcasing their cultures and turning the event into a colourful cultural celebration.
Local Xitsonga music and house music were a big hit with the international teams.
Matson said: “South Africa is a friendly and warm nation; it is so different to other countries, and it was a great encounter.”
The next GIFT tournament will be held in Kenya in 2027.
Beka Ntsanwisi, the founder of the tournament, thanked the local community and all the stakeholders who supported the event. But she had strong words for those who didn’t support her when it mattered.
She is currently undergoing treatment after her colon cancer returned last year. She made it clear that when she dies, no high-profile people or politicians should attend her funeral if they didn’t help her during her fight.
Pictured above: USA and French team.
Picture two: Elizabeth Tala, the oldest player.
Image source: Supplied
