The journey to stardom beckons for many young football hopefuls via the Engen Knockout Challenge. Brought to you by Engen, South Africa’s leading petroleum brand*, the Engen Knockout Challenge is played in five cities across South Africa, namely: Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban, Bloemfontein and Johannesburg.

Defending regional 2016 Engen Knockout Challenge champions; Old Mutual (Cape Town), Chippa United FC (Port Elizabeth), Umqhele High School (Durban), Roo Stars (Bloemfontein) and Orlando Pirates (Johannesburg) will all be looking to defend their coveted titles against this year’s challengers.

Over 250 teams are currently engaged in playoffs to determine the 16 teams that will feature in each of the five regional events respectively.

Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious youth football tournaments in the country, the Engen Knockout Challenge has since inception in 2003 provided many aspiring professional football players with a stage to showcase their skills to leading scouts and clubs.

Coaches and scouts from both local and foreign professional clubs regularly attend the regional editions of the Engen Knockout Challenge in search of the next young South African football star. Over the years, more than 150 players have been snapped up by professional clubs.

The 2017 Engen Knockout Challenge is primed once again to unveil the best young football talent, with many going on to achieve their dreams of competing in the pro ranks. For the players preparing for the 2017 Engen Knockout Challenge, the message is clear “Your Journey Starts Here”! Engen Group Sponsorship Manager, Brad Bergh says the Engen Knockout Challenge continues to provide a platform for South Africa’s aspiring footballers to launch their professional football careers.

“Engen is proud to be a part of the development of these young future football stars, further contributing to the realisation of their dream of being signed professionally,” says Bergh.

*As voted in the Sunday Times Top Brands and Sunday Times Generation Next surveys.”