The Second Edition of the Grannies International Football Tournament (GIFT)
Tzaneen, South Africa | Early April 2025
"Once one person starts dancing, everybody tries to follow the dance... We didn't speak any language in common other than dancing."
— Deb Keohan, captain of the New England Breakers
Tournament Overview
The second edition of the Grannies International Football Tournament (GIFT) took place in Tzaneen, South Africa, in early April 2025. The tournament is specifically for women aged 50 and older.
All matches were held at Nkowankowa Stadium in Tzaneen. Participating teams represented seven countries:
- United States
- France
- Togo
- Kenya
- Mozambique
- South Africa
- Zambia
Champions
The New England Breakers (USA) won the tournament, defeating Les Zamies (France) in a penalty shoot-out.
Behind the Scenes
Team Zambia arrived late due to transportation issues but still managed to compete in two matches.
The Organizer
The tournament was organized by Beka Ntsanwisi, a radio host and philanthropist. Ntsanwisi started a soccer league for older women in Tzaneen in 2007. The local league grew, eventually leading to the first GIFT in 2023.
Voices from the Tournament
"We are happy that we didn't give up. I love my team because we don't give up."
— Lillian Zulu, captain of Team Zambia
"Here they are giving everything of themselves. Being here, it's so motivating."
— Honorine Kobara Adjoa, captain of Femme Foot Togo