In an exciting and historic achievement, JVW Football Club has made its mark by winning the inaugural Iber Cup South Africa, which was held from December 12-16, 2024. The prestigious youth tournament saw three JVW teams – the U14s, U16s, and U19s – competing in extreme temperatures, yet each team managed to reach the (Cup) finals of their respective age groups, a testament to the club’s strength and development across all levels.
U19s Crowned Champions After Thrilling Penalty Victory
The U19 team delivered an outstanding performance in the final, clinching the championship in dramatic fashion. After a fiercely contested 90 minutes against UJ FC, the match ended 0-0, and the game was decided by a penalty shootout. In a moment of brilliance, goalkeeper Casey Gordon showcased her exceptional shot-stopping skills, saving crucial penalties to lead her team to a 4-2 victory. Her heroic performance between the posts played a pivotal role in securing the title, and her leadership on and off the field was evident throughout the tournament.
The U19s’ victory in the inaugural Iber Cup South Africa marks another major milestone for JVW, further cementing the club’s position as a powerhouse in youth football development.
U16s and U14s Secure Silver in Nail-Biting Finals
While the U16 and U14 teams didn’t capture the top spot, both squads showed tremendous character and resilience, finishing as runners-up in their respective finals.
The U16 team put up a brave fight in their final against TUKS, equalizing in the dying minutes of the match to force the game into a penalty shootout. Unfortunately, after a tense series of penalties, they fell short, securing a well-deserved silver medal. Their determination and skill throughout the tournament were evident, and they can hold their heads high after such a strong showing.
The U14s also found themselves in a similar situation, battling it out in the final but had to settle for second place. Despite the defeat, their journey to the final was a remarkable achievement, and the silver medal speaks to the bright future of these young players.
A Landmark Tournament for JVW Football Club
The Iber Cup South Africa not only provided an exciting competitive platform but also served as a significant moment in the history of JVW Football Club. With three teams reaching the final in the tournament’s debut year, the club’s commitment to developing young talent was evident across all age groups. Each team demonstrated exceptional skill, resilience, and teamwork, and the experience gained will be invaluable for their continued development.
“To have all three of our teams reach the finals in the Iber Cup tournament is big achievement for JVW,” said Van Wyk, Co-founder of JVW FC. “Our players showed incredible spirit, determination, and quality on the field. The success of our U19s winning the championship, alongside the silver medal finishes from the U16s and U14s, highlights the strength of our development program and the bright future ahead for these young athletes.”
A Bright Future for JVW Football Club
The club continues to provide young female footballers with the tools, opportunities, and platform to excel. Through programs that focus on technical and tactical development JVW is dedicated to shaping the future of South African women’s football. The performances across all the age groups throughout the year is a testament to the hard work and dedication put in by both the players and the coaching staff.
JVW Football Club celebrates a historic achievement, setting the bar high for future editions of the Iber Cup South Africa and continues to pave the way for the next generation of female football stars in South Africa.
About JVW Football Club
JVW Football Club commits to develop and empower young female football talent. With a strong focus on growth and excellence, JVW provides an environment where players can reach their full potential and transition from youth development to top-tier competition. The club’s success in the inaugural Iber Cup South Africa further solidifies its reputation as one of the leaders in the growth of women’s football in South Africa.