The Vodacom Premier League (VPL) title race is reaching a thrilling climax, with just four matches remaining and only four teams still in realistic contention for the crown.
This weekend’s fixtures could prove potentially narrowing the race even further if any of the frontrunners stumble.
Following last weekend’s action, Lijabatho remain at the summit with 53 points, although their grip has loosened after a 1-1 draw with Lifofane.
Bantu capitalised on the slip, edging Manonyane 2-1 to climb into second place on 51 points level with Matlama, who sit third due to the head-to-head rule after a crucial 1-0 victory over defending champions Lioli.
Lifofane, meanwhile, dropped to fourth with 50 points after their stalemate against the leaders. With the title picture tightening, the focus now shifts to how each of the top four will navigate the final stretch.
Lijabatho, once seemingly destined for a historic triumph, have hit a rough patch at the worst possible time. Back-to-back draws against the LDF and Lifofane have exposed vulnerabilities in a side that earlier looked unstoppable.
Lijabatho head coach James Madidilane now finds himself under mounting pressure to deliver silverware and justify the heavy investment in the squad.
Despite their dip in form, Lijabatho still control their destiny. However, their run-in appears the most challenging, with key fixtures against Matlama and Lioli still to come. Madidilane has emphasised the importance of winning their next two matches against LCS and LMPS before facing Matlama in what could be a title decider.
Bantu, under the guidance of Motheo Mohapi, have quietly built momentum at a crucial stage of the season. While their campaign has been inconsistent, their recent form has kept them within touching distance of the leaders. Victories over relegation-threatened Liphakoe and a crucial clash against Lifofane could define their title credentials. Should Bantu go all the way, Mohapi would make history by winning the league three consecutive times with two different teams.
Perhaps the most compelling narrative belongs to Matlama. Their resurgence under Thabile Secker has been remarkable, transforming from early-season strugglers into genuine contenders.
Having previously guided the club to its 10th league title, Secker’s experience has been instrumental in their revival. While he has attempted to temper expectations, Matlama’s current form makes them a formidable force in the title race.
Lifofane, led by NkosanaMabena, have also exceeded expectations this season. Despite being viewed as the most vulnerable among the top four, they remain firmly in contention.
Their immediate task appears manageable against struggling Members, but a subsequent showdown with Bantu could ultimately determine their fate. A victory in that fixture would not only dent Bantu’s hopes but significantly boost their own title ambitions.
Away from the top, the relegation battle is equally intense. Maroala sit bottom with 14 points, followed closely by Members on 15, while Liphakoe hover just above the drop zone with 16 points. With survival at stake, every point will be fiercely contested.
This weekend’s fixtures promise high drama at both ends of the table. A standout encounter sees long-time rivals Linare host Matlama, renewing a rivalry that previously saw Matlama claim a narrow 2-1 victory.
Meanwhile, Bantu face a must-win clash against Liphakoe, and Lifofane take on Members in another pivotal contest.
All eyes will be on Setsoto Stadium on Saturday, where a quadruple header is scheduled. The action begins with Lioli facing LDF at 10:00, followed by Linare versus Matlama at 12:30. Bantu meet Liphakoe at 15:00, before Machokha take on Majantja at 17:30, with matches broadcast live on FIFA+.
Sunday’s fixtures include Maroala against LMPS at Ratjomose, Members versus Lifofane at LCS Ground, and Manonyane facing LU FC at Bambatha.
Summary
- The Vodacom Premier League (VPL) title race is reaching a thrilling climax, with just four matches remaining and only four teams still in realistic contention for the crown.
- Bantu capitalised on the slip, edging Manonyane 2-1 to climb into second place on 51 points level with Matlama, who sit third due to the head-to-head rule after a crucial 1-0 victory over defending champions Lioli.
- Madidilane has emphasised the importance of winning their next two matches against LCS and LMPS before facing Matlama in what could be a title decider.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
