Chris Theko
Charles Manda, the former head coach of Matlama and Lijabatho FC, has set his sights on guiding Bantu FC to Vodacom Premier League (VPL) glory. Following a 1-1 draw with Matlama on Sunday at Bambatha Tsita Ground, Manda expressed his determination to lead Bantu back to the top of Lesotho football.
The Malawian tactician has signed a six-month contract with Bantu, with the option to extend. Manda replaces James Madidilane, who had been at the helm since January 2024 but recently left to join fellow VPL side Lijabatho FC.
Speaking after the match, Manda outlined his vision for the club and the responsibility he shoulders.
“I am not here to just make up the numbers in the technical team. As head coach, my primary goal is to help Bantu challenge for the Vodacom Premier League title. Just like any teacher wants their students to succeed, my aim is for this team to play well and win championships. That is my mandate,” he said.
With the league halfway through its 2024/25 season, Manda remains optimistic despite Bantu sitting in fifth place. “We are definitely going to chase the title. This is a work in progress. Just give us time as we move into the second round of the season. The Bantu that everyone knows – competitive and motivated – will be seen throughout the remainder of this campaign,” he added confidently.
Manda is no stranger to Lesotho’s football scene. He coached Matlama from 2019 to 2021, though his tenure ended prematurely following a string of poor results. Later that year, he took over at Lijabatho FC, where he spent two seasons before moving to Bantu. His return to the VPL with Bantu marks a fresh chapter in his coaching journey, with a clear focus on reclaiming the team’s competitive edge.
The VPL standings are tightly contested at the halfway point. Matlama leads the log with 37 points after 15 matches, boasting 12 wins, one draw, and two losses. Hot on their heels is Lioli, with 35 points from 11 wins. LMPS and LDF occupy third and fourth places, respectively, with LMPS on 31 points from 15 matches, while LDF has 29 points from 14 matches.
Bantu currently sits in fifth place, having collected 29 points from 14 games, with nine wins, two draws, and three losses. However, the team has a game in hand, which could potentially bring them closer to the top four. Manda believes the title race is still wide open.
“This league is a marathon, not a sprint. We have shown glimpses of what this team is capable of, and with the right adjustments, I am confident we can close the gap on the leading teams,” Manda stated.
Bantu FC supporters will be hoping for a strong resurgence under Manda’s leadership. Known for his disciplined approach and tactical acumen, Manda has promised to instil a winning mentality in the squad.
“The fans deserve to see a competitive Bantu, and that’s what we are working towards. This team has a proud history, and I am here to ensure we add another chapter of success to it,” he concluded.
As the second round of the season approaches, all eyes will be on Manda and his quest to restore Bantu FC to its former glory. The journey may be challenging, but with Manda at the helm, Bantu’s title aspirations remain alive.
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