The controllers were charged. The competition was fierce. And when the dust settled, some of South Africa’s most recognisable gaming competitors were standing on the podium once again.
Pretoria’s gaming community descended on Woodlands Mall from 12 to 14 June for the latest stop of the 2026 MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience, a three-day showcase of esports, competitive gaming and interactive challenges that attracted thousands of participants.
What unfolded was more than just another tournament weekend.
It was a demonstration of how South Africa’s gaming scene continues to grow, evolve and create its own stars.
Returning Champions Make Their Mark
One of the biggest stories of the weekend belonged to Zaid April.
Already known within MTN SHIFT circles for winning the 2024 EA FC National Final at Canal Walk, April once again proved why he remains one of the country’s top virtual football competitors.
His victory in the EA FC 26™ Mall Final secured him a R2,500 Woodlands Mall gift card and, more importantly, a coveted place in the 2026 National Football Final, which takes place at Canal Walk from 26 to 30 August.
The win adds another chapter to an already impressive competitive record.
April was not the only familiar name making headlines.
Michael Prange successfully defended his reputation in Beat Saber by once again claiming first place after winning the category in 2025.
Lesego Mosikare delivered one of the weekend’s standout performances. Not only did he win Friday’s Keyboard Rebuild Race, but he also successfully defended his Brawlhalla title after winning the same competition in 2025.
Meanwhile, Ighsaan Brinkhuis returned to the EA FC podium with a third-place finish, matching the exact result he achieved in the 2024 competition.
Their success highlighted a growing trend within the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience: the emergence of returning competitors who continue to raise the standard of competition year after year.
A Weekend Packed With Action
While returning champions stole many of the headlines, Woodlands Mall also provided a platform for new competitors to shine.
A total of 619 gamers registered for the event, while an impressive 2,486 participants took part in the various live challenges and tournaments hosted throughout the weekend.
The action extended well beyond the EA FC arena.
Competitors battled it out across Tekken, Street Fighter 6 and Brawlhalla as part of the Fighting Cup series.
Racing enthusiasts tested their skills in the Fastest Lap challenge, while Beat Saber combined virtual reality and rhythm gaming in one of the event’s most energetic categories.
The increasingly popular Keyboard Rebuild Race added a unique technical challenge, rewarding players who could combine speed, precision and hardware knowledge under pressure.
Subway Surfers also delivered fast-paced mobile gaming action as players chased high scores and leaderboard positions.
Gaming Community Continues to Grow
According to Barbara Perry, Marketing Manager at Woodlands Mall, the return of familiar competitors is helping establish the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience as a key fixture on the local gaming calendar.
“Woodlands was filled with energy throughout the weekend, and it was rewarding to see both returning competitors and new players stepping forward,” she said.
“When previous winners come back to compete again, it shows that the event has earned a place in the local gaming calendar. It gives skilled players something to work towards while remaining open and welcoming to anyone who wants to take part.”
That blend of elite competition and community participation continues to be one of the defining strengths of the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience.
Whether competing for national qualification, chasing a podium finish or simply enjoying the atmosphere, participants of all skill levels have an opportunity to be part of the action.
The Road to Canal Walk Continues
While Woodlands Mall delivered unforgettable moments, the journey to the national finals is far from over.
The MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience now heads to The Glen, where the next in-centre tournament takes place from 26 to 28 June.
Further stops include Table Bay Mall, Clearwater Mall, Capegate and Canal Walk before the national finals conclude the season from 26 to 30 August 2026.
With more than R50,000 in prizes up for grabs at the national finals, the stakes continue to rise with every tournament.
For returning champions, it is an opportunity to cement their legacy.
For newcomers, it is a chance to make their name.
And for South Africa’s growing gaming community, it is further proof that competitive gaming is no longer a niche hobby—it is becoming a major part of the country’s entertainment landscape.
Woodlands Mall EA FC 26™ Winners
1st Place: Zaid April
2nd Place: Katlego Mphaka
3rd Place: Ighsaan Brinkhuis
Beat Saber Winner
1st Place: Michael Prange
Fighting Cup Winners
Brawlhalla
1st Place: Lesego Mosikare
2nd Place: Aphiwe Mzilikazi
Tekken
1st Place: Silumko Mgebisa
2nd Place: Tiisetso Monatisa
Street Fighter 6
1st Place: Vuyo Fani
2nd Place: Hlulani Ndlovu
Subway Surfers Winner
1st Place: Sivu Fani
