African Youth Attackers, the winners of Igugu Lombhoxo in 2025.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
Not much went the way of Cape Town teams in this year’s Igugu Lombhoxo Easter Tournament at Khayelitsha Stadium.
Local fans had to watch the trophy being contested by two visiting teams, African Youth Attackers and The Sharks, with the Attackers eventually walking away as champions.
Even so, the tournament was a massive success. The stadium was packed to the brim and at one point, the gates had to be locked with scores of people still trying to get in, stuck in the slow-moving traffic outside. The demand to witness the Easter weekend action was that high.
The Igugu Lombhoxo has become a staple of the Easter weekend when it comes to rugby, with teams travelling in from the Eastern Cape and North West to take part. In total, 24 teams competed over the long weekend, with seven Cape Town clubs representing Khayelitsha and Langa.
Keenan Williams of Young Killers RFC tries to get away from African Youth Attackers' Sivuyile Mdodana.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
The last time a Cape Town side lifted the trophy was back in 2023, when Busy Bees took the honours. They’ve won the tournament three times, making them one of its most successful clubs. Other local teams who’ve managed to claim the title in past years include Western Zebras, Blue Jets and Langa.
This year’s results may not have gone Cape Town’s way, but the spirit of the game, the atmosphere in the stands, and the level of competition kept the crowd entertained from start to finish.
The tournament has now been running for 27 years, including the stretch during the Covid-19 pandemic when it had to take a break. It remains one of the most anticipated club rugby events in the township.
Siyabonga Kasibe of Hungry Lion slots in a penalty from further than the halfway mark.
Image: Buntu Gotywa