The 2025 Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup delivered a memorable conclusion in Ulundi on the 16th of November 2025, as AmaZulu FC and Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs FC were officially crowned joint champions after heavy rainfall forced the cancellation of the final. What began as a day set for celebration ended as a powerful reminder of the tournament’s deeper purpose , unity, community, and honouring a legacy that continues to shape KwaZulu-Natal.

Persistent rain throughout the afternoon left the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium waterlogged, making the pitch unsafe and unplayable. Following inspections and consultation with both clubs, organisers made the decision to call off the final. In a show of respect and shared sportsmanship, AmaZulu FC and Nsingizini Hotspurs agreed to share the 2025 trophy.

Although the tournament ended in unusual circumstances, the football itself delivered intensity, quality, and regional pride.

AmaZulu secured their place in the final after a disciplined 2–1 victory over Njampela FC in the first semi-final. Goals from Tebogo Mashigo and Elmo Kambindu ensured the Durban-based side controlled key moments and advanced with confidence.

The second semi-final saw Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs edge Richards Bay FC after a tense encounter that ended 0–0 in regulation time. Extra time could not separate the sides, forcing the match to penalties, where Hotspurs held their nerve to win 6–5 and book a historic place in the final.

The final was scheduled for a 16:00 kickoff, but the severe rainfall seen across large parts of the province made conditions impossible to play. With the pitch waterlogged and visibility declining, safety became the priority.

Honouring Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Through Sport

Founded by the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and organised annually by the Zululand District Municipality in partnership with the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, the Legacy Cup stands as a celebration of heritage, identity, and collective progress.

The tournament’s intention stretches beyond football , it serves as a unifying platform where clubs from KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring countries come together to recognise Prince Buthelezi’s impact on culture, leadership, and community building.

A Tournament Committed to Community Growth

A defining feature of the 2025 edition was its investment in grassroots football, particularly in advancing opportunities for young girls and local coaches.

Twenty-five coaches working with girls’ teams in the Ulundi region participated in an intensive three-hour coaching workshop facilitated by AmaZulu FC Sporting Director Pedro Dias and Richards Bay FC Assistant Coach Siboniso Gumede. The session focused on modern coaching principles and applied methodology, equipping coaches with tools to strengthen development pathways for young female players.

Coaches received certificates of attendance before taking their teams onto the field to implement what they had learned ,a moment that brought pride and excitement to the girls involved.

AmaZulu FC further extended their community commitment through their Sanitary Pad Drive, donating pads to girls from Dikane High School, ensuring dignity and support remain central to the club’s outreach efforts.

Though the weather may have dictated the end of the football, it did not overshadow the spirit of the 2025 Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup. AmaZulu FC and Nsingizini Hotspurs lifting the trophy together reflected the ideals this tournament stands for  unity, sportsmanship, and collective celebration.

In honouring Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the competition once again proved that football in KwaZulu-Natal is more than a game, it’s a legacy carried forward, year after year.