The organisers of the tournament have announced a star-studded line up - not just in the teams playing, but also in the entertainment planned for the matches taking place at the Royal Bofokeng Sports Palace on June 30 and Absa Stadium on July 8, 2001.

Among the top artists who have been booked to keep the fans entertained in between double headers are Mandoza, who has become an icon of South African Kwaito at only 22 years.

Hailing from a rough neighbourhood where gangsters rule the roost, Mandoza is a role model for youngsters wanting to get out of the hard life, and create a future for themselves. "I dreamed about becoming a real musician and singer so this is really a dream come true," said the keen artist.

Close to Mandoza's heart is Chiskop, who will also be featuring in the entertainment line up of the Vodacom Challenge.

Nominated for an FNB SA Music Award, this band represents what experts refer to as: "the genuine article" of Kwaito. Now five years in the business, this group is about to release its sixth album. These trademark clean-shaven headed youngsters with their well-defined bodies, are set to get the female fans heart's fluttering.

Then there's Arthur whose come back muso's say "was as inevitable as the coming of Christmas". This "King of Kwaito" will add the crowning glory to the sound that will rock the two soccer stadiums in a uniquely South African way.

Finally, another big name in the local entertainment scene who will be at the Vodacom Challenge events is Ishmael.

Well known for his hit dance song called: "Roba Letheka" , Ishmael has become known for his R&B association. He has been the recipient of several SAMA awards, and is developing quite a creative relationship with Arthur.

Together with Italian soccer style confetti, fireworks and a 25-man dance ensemble, these artists promise to keep spectators of the Vodacom Challenge hopping and jiving right through to the last second of the tournament.

Tickets for the two events in the Vodacom Challenge are already on sale via Ticketweb.

For a one-stop, top class soccer and entertainment package, fans will pay only R20 for adults to attend the Rustenburg matches, while adults wanting to see the Finals at Absa Stadium in Durban will be charged a mere R30. Juveniles wanting to enter the stadiums at both events will buy their tickets for R10.

Fixtures:


Kaizer Chiefs v Hearts of Oak - 12:30


Orlando Pirates v Asante Kotoko - 14:30

The final and third place play-off will be in Durban on July 8.