Mahagala Young Stars emerged victorious over Lukalo Hotspurs with a 7-6 win in the final of the TGM Youth Soccer Tournament held at Mushiru Grounds on Sunday. Despite both teams’ playing their second game of the day - having earlier competed in the semi-finals at the same venue - the match was a thrilling contest.

The game unfolded in two distinct halves, with Mahagala Young Stars dominating the first half. The Hotspurs’ defenders thwarted several promising attacks from the Stars in the initial 20 minutes. Captain Thanzielo Mutele of the Stars narrowly missed scoring with a half volley from 20 metres early in the game. Despite these early threats, Hotspurs remained defensively focused, opting for caution over attacking opportunities. As the first half progressed, Young Stars missed two more clear chances to score.

The dynamics shifted in the second half, as Lukalo Hotspurs gained momentum and controlled play. They launched numerous attacks from the midfield and came close to scoring in the 54^th minute when Pfano Maleba received a pass from Shumani Nemutanzhela but failed to convert from close range. Shortly after, Vusi Lutumba missed another scoring opportunity from the right corner.

With both teams visibly fatigued in the final 10 minutes of regular time, the match concluded in a goalless draw, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Mahagala Young Stars maintained their composure, converting all seven penalties through Muhumbulo Netshipale, Thakhani Nemutudi, Owen Munzhelele, Thanzielo Mutele, Innocent Netshipise, Gift Nemphuma, and Gudani Nevhudzholi. Lukalo Hotspurs managed to score six penalties but fell short by one, granting Mahagala Young Stars the tournament victory.