Zambia Invitational side were crowned champions of the inaugural 2017 Best Brew League five-a-side regional finals in South Africa’s North West Province on Sunday. 

The Zambian team made up of Fred Chimponda, Rodgers Kamwandi, Clive Hachilensa, Matthews Chikwete, Charles Chansa, Paul Chileshe and also got a helping hand from former Chipolopolo striker Rotson ‘The Animal’ Kilambe beat Botswana in a penalty shoot-out on the final after the teams had played to a 2-2 draw.

Zambia defeated a South Africa Invitational side 11-0 in the quarterfinals before edging the second side from South Africa 2-1 in the semifinals.

Charles Chansa who is the skipper of the side said the inaugural best brew five-aside tournament had provided them with memories that will last a lifetime.

“It is an incredible experience for us and something we will never forget!” said a beaming Chansa. 

“We have worked so hard to get to this point and to lift the trophy is a dream come true for us. 

“But most importantly, we worked for this trophy together, we have played as a team and won as a team. That is very special for all of us and whatever happens in the remainder of our lives, we can always look back on winning this trophy for Zambia.”

Zimbabwe who were represented by six lucky consumers Tonderai Chisoro, Abel Nsingo, Munyaradzi Mtake, Rutendo Ncube, Dadirai Tarusenga and Nqobile Bhebhe were knocked out in the finals by a fired up Swaziland. Even the introduction of Best Brew Legend Tinashe Nengomasha could not help matters with the team from Swaziland winning by half a dozen goals over the Zimbabweans.

However, Nengomasha was delighted to have seen his fellow countrymen enjoying the tournament in the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that was on display in the two day event.

“We might have lost in the quarter finals but the memories will linger in the minds of my players. Despite not having played a single five-aside game in their lives, my team showed great character and determination, in the end it was friendship that was the winner”.

With its theme of fortifying bonds of belonging and true friendship, Castle Brand Manager for Africa, Thomas Lawrence said the tournament was much a celebration of friendship as it was football. 

“Congratulations to all the teams that took part, it was wonderful first ever Best Brew League and a great experience for everybody who took part. This tournament is about playing with your friends, but also making new friends as well, and the spirit amongst the teams was fantastic. 

“To be able to bring players from across the region together, to enjoy football and each other’s company with a cold Castle Lager, has been very rewarding for all of us involved in the Best Brew League.”

Best Brew League brand ambassadors Nengomasha, Brian Baloyi, Siza Dlamini, Lehlohonolo Seema and Kilambe provided more thrills for the fans as they were part of the action teaming with their teams from the quarter final stage. 

The Best Brew League was run in conjunction with the 2017 COSAFA Castle Cup in South Africa.