How Engen is shaping the future of women’s football - IOL

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies star Katleho Malebana has highlighted the “big role” the Engen Knockout Challenge tournaments play in nurturing and developing young female football talent.

MAMELODI Sundowns Ladies star Katleho Malebana has highlighted the “big role” the Engen Knockout Challenge tournaments play in nurturing and developing young female football talent.

The South Africa U17 captain was part of the Banyana Ba Style side that hoisted the Gauteng Engen Knockout Challenge title after defeating the University of Johannesburg in the final.

The talented midfielder says young female players should embrace the opportunity to compete in the tournament, describing it as a “high-level” platform. She believes the exposure to such intense competition can help young players gain experience, build confidence and accelerate their development.

“Engen creates opportunities for young female footballers to be seen, to gain experience and to believe in themselves,” said Malebana.

“Women’s football is growing, and tournaments like Engen play a big role in that growth. They give young girls the chance to compete at a high level and experience what it feels like to be part of a serious football environment.

“I would encourage every upcoming female footballer to take competitions like this seriously, because there are many national teams coaches watching and different scouts all over but also to enjoy themselves.”

Malebana beholds the Engen tournaments as valuable platforms for young footballers to showcase their talent and attract opportunities beyond the competition.

With several players having previously used the tournament as a springboard to greener pastures, the tournament continues to live up to its reputation - Where Diski Legends Start.

“Every game is an opportunity to learn something new. You never know who is watching or where that opportunity could eventually take you and they should keep believing in themselves.”

Ready to take on the Engen Champ of Champs from 2–4 October 2026 at the University of Pretoria's High-Performance Centre, she acknowledged that she is fully motivated for the competition.

“I'm extremely fired up for it! After winning Engen [Knockout Challenge], the excitement is definitely there, but we're also aware that we have to put in even more work because the Champ of Champs will bring another level of competition.”