FROM blistering goals to heart-stopping saves, the Road to Greatness officially has a South African name on it.
After an electrifying day of five-a-side football at Edenvale Indoor Soccer, one team has emerged victorious and will now go on to represent Mzansi on a global stage – the Emirates Stadium in London.
Orlando Pirates recently crashed out of the CAF Champions League losing by an odd goal in the semi-finals after another successful campaign representing South Africa, Orlando Pirates Fives proved that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
The five-a-side team showcased skill, hustle, and heart in every round, navigating a highly competitive field that included standout performances from football clubs such as the Pitso Mosimane Foundation, who fought their way to the semi-finals.
Speaking at the tournament, coach Pitso Mosimane said, “It’s great to see initiatives like the TCL Cup five-a-side, where young talent is given a platform to play.
Unfortunately, we lost the semi-finals, but it is not all about winning. We are here to give the guys from the township an opportunity to come and participate. From humble beginnings, everybody must get a chance to go to London, especially the Emirates Stadium.
It is unbelievable.”
“The level of competition (today) was tight, and that is exactly what you want to see in the development of future players,” concluded Mosimane.
In a final match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Orlando Pirates Fives took on Delmore Squad. After a nail-biting 4–4 draw, the champions were decided by penalties, with Orlando Pirates Fives clinching a 3–2 win and securing their place in London.
As a brand committed to inspiring greatness, TCL created this tournament to spotlight raw talent and offer an opportunity many only dream about: stepping onto the pitch at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums.
Hosted in partnership with Arsenal FC, the global five-a-side tournament will bring together national champions from countries including Pakistan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.
“The final wasn’t an easy one, as many would have seen. Fortunately for us, we train every day, just as the PSL Orlando Pirates team would, and that made us confident coming into the matches.
The team has quite a few young players and this is a great opportunity for them to go abroad, especially those who have not travelled yet. Putting on the South African badge to represent the country is every athlete’s number one goal, and thanks to TCL we get to do that.
Job well done,” said Kyle Koert, Orlando Pirates Fives Captain.
“What we witnessed at the Road To Greatness SA Qualifiers was pure potential, unlocked.
This Cup is not just about football, it is about opening doors, about taking ordinary moments and turning them into extraordinary opportunities. The TCL Cup five-a-side tournament is a celebration of talent, heart, and the power of belief.
We look forward to the team showcasing their South African flair and talent in England” says Mike Chen, General Manager, TCL South Africa.
The winning team will now travel to London for the international TCL Cup Road To Greatness finals taking place at the end of May 2025, where they will train with Arsenal FC coaches, experience an exclusive tour of the Emirates Stadium, and compete against global finalists from across the world.
We look forward to the global spectacle and hope the Pirates Fives will bring the inaugural trophy to Mzansi and inspire more five-a-side teams to dream big.
Follow Orlando Pirates Fives’ journey by visiting TCL South Africa’s pages for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and full London coverage.
Image supplied (Winners. Orlando Pirates Fives squad will represent SA at global championship finale at Emirates Stadium, London, end of May).
