The Schindler Cup 2025 Gauteng East regional qualifier concluded with an emphatic win by The Padel Bar and Café, who outplayed Padel Active in the final. They sealed the regional crown with three consecutive match victories after dropping the first mixed doubles, showcasing their dominance and consistency across all divisions.

Final Showdown: Padel Bar and Café Overpowers Padel Active

The final kicked off with a spark from Padel Active, who took the first mixed doubles 6–3, threatening to shift the momentum early. But The Padel Bar and Café remained composed. In the second mixed doubles, they edged out a tight 7–5 victory, turning the tide.

From there, the momentum was all Padel Bar and Café. Their ladies team delivered a commanding 6–1 win, followed by the men closing out the final with a 6–4 victory. The final 3–1 result secured their place at the Schindler Cup National Finals, and established them as serious contenders for the title.

Squad Depth and Strategy Key to Padel Bar and Café’s Campaign

The Padel Bar and Café demonstrated one of the most well-rounded performances seen in the regional qualifiers to date. With experienced players stepping up under pressure and every pairing contributing crucial wins, their team strategy was watertight.

Their consistency across mixed, ladies, and men’s doubles gave them a clear edge not just in the final, but throughout the tournament, where they remained undefeated in all team ties.

Top Female Performers: Romberg and Runefelt

Yael Romberg emerged as the standout female player of the event, notching 12 victories and just 2 losses. Her tactical awareness and net dominance were central to the team’s success in both the ladies and mixed divisions.

Carin Runefelt also left her mark with 11 wins, backing up Romberg to form a near-unbeatable duo in the ladies doubles matches, including their decisive 6–1 win in the final against Padel Active.

Venancio Fernandes Pinto Leads the Men’s Charge

On the men’s side, Venancio Fernandes Pinto was a driving force, ending the tournament with 11 wins and leading from the front in the final. His consistency and ability to shift the tempo during rallies gave the team a psychological and tactical boost.

Close behind him was Callum Brand, who finished with 10 victories, showing composure under pressure in mixed doubles and key playoff encounters.

Padel Active’s Road to the Final

Despite the loss in the final, Padel Active fought hard throughout the tournament. Their path to the final was built on grit and high-pressure wins, particularly in earlier rounds where their mixed teams often delivered under pressure.

Players such as Ludwig Gostmann, who ended with 11 wins, and Casandra Van Der Berg, a promising women’s player with 10 wins, were key to their progression and gave Padel Bar and Café a real test in the championship match.

Eyes on the National Finals

The Padel Bar and Café’s campaign now advances to the National Finals, where they will represent Gauteng East against other top regional clubs. With balanced rosters, proven pairings, and strong performances across divisions, they carry the momentum of a team that could go all the way.

Their mix of experienced players and emerging talent has already made a statement. If they maintain this form, they’ll be one of the clubs to watch on the national stage.