SALM TEAM 
The countdown is on for South Africa’s biggest celebration of gaming and pop culture, Comic Con Africa, and Telkom VS Gaming is bringing one of the most exciting esports activations yet – the SAFA eDiski Qualifiers. Taking place from 28 – 31 August 2025 at NASREC, Johannesburg, the qualifiers will give local gamers a shot at making history, competing for the chance to represent South Africa on the global FIFAe stage.
Telkom VS Gaming, in partnership with the South African Football Association (SAFA), is giving football fans and gamers alike the opportunity to step into the world of eFootball and battle it out in front of thousands of spectators. The qualifiers are more than just a tournament – they’re a pathway to being selected for the official FIFAe National Squad.
Tournament Structure
The SAFA eDiski Qualifiers at Comic Con Africa will feature eight high-intensity tournaments across the four-day event, with two tournaments played per day. Each will follow a single elimination format, capped at 32 players (or 16 teams) per tournament. The stakes couldn’t be higher: the winning team from each open qualifier earns a place in the closed trials, scheduled for 20 – 21 September 2025 (online).
The closed trials in September are where the best of the best will be tested, with players competing in a round-robin style, with points awarded for their performances. From there, South Africa’s FIFAe National Squad will be chosen – the ultimate dream for any aspiring eFootball professional.
Entry Details – Open to All Aspiring Pros
Gamers looking to test their skills can register on the day at Comic Con Africa, provided they meet the following requirements:
- Must be 16 years or older
- Must compete on Console
- Hold a valid South African passport (valid until at least June 2026)
- Register with passport in hand
- A valid fifa.gg account (registrations are open)
For those who can’t make it to NASREC, there’s still a chance: an online open qualifier will also be held, with the top two teams advancing to the closed trials. Additionally, 8 players from the eDiski Top 8 will be invited, ensuring the trials bring together South Africa’s most talented pool of players.
More Than a Tournament – A Community Celebration
“eFootball is not just a game – it’s a platform for community, talent, and national pride,” says Johann Von Backstrom, Telkom VS Gaming spokesperson. “Bringing the SAFA eDiski Qualifiers to Comic Con Africa allows gamers from across the country to showcase their skills on a grand stage. This is where future esports stars are born, and we’re proud to provide the platform for them to shine.”
The qualifiers will also serve as a showcase of how esports is redefining pathways for young South Africans, providing opportunities for recognition and even international careers. Whether you’re competing or just watching from the sidelines, fans can expect nail-biting matches, spectacular plays, and the unmatched energy of Comic Con Africa’s live audience.
“Esports is an exciting extension for us at the South African Football Association since FIFA20,” says Ms Lydia Monyepao, the South African Football Association CEO. “Through the eDiski Qualifiers, we’re not only fostering a new generation of competitive gamers, but also expanding how football can connect with young people. We are proud to work alongside Telkom VS Gaming to give South Africans the chance to represent their country on the FIFAe stage. These men and women will join Bafana Bafana, Banyana Banyana in representing us at official FIFA tournaments.”
Why You Can’t Miss It
- Eight tournaments in four days – with chances for new winners daily
- Live, high-energy esports action at Africa’s biggest pop culture festival
- The opportunity to cheer on and support South African talent on their journey to representing the country internationally
- A spotlight on the growing synergy between traditional sports and esports, with being part of SAFA’s national team selected from this competition
