New entrant in Women’s Super League confirmed

Refiloe Molise

Emmanuel Queens Football Club (FC) have booked their place in the Women’s Super League (WSL) for next season after an outstanding performance in the Women’s Southern Promotional Play-offs held in Mohale’s Hoek over the weekend.

The Qoaling-based side finished top of the five club’s standings with a perfect record, winning all four of their matches to collect 12 points.

They finished ahead of FC Eagles Ladies, who secured second place with seven points, while Majantja Ladies settled for third with five points.

Despite their flawless campaign, Emmanuel Queens Head Coach,Thabang Motseta revealed that the primary objective was to win the tournament, although it was deliberately kept from the players to shield them from pressure.

“The main goal was to win the play-offs, but I did not communicate that to my players. They are still young and I wanted them to play freely and express themselves without pressure,” said Motseta.

The club’s dominance was largely attributed to effective squad rotation and a development-focused approach. With a squad of 19 players, Motseta ensured that nearly every outfield player featured in at least two matches, fostering confidence and unity within the group.

“Working with young players has taught me to give everyone a chance. It helped them grow together and trust each other’s ability,” he explained.

Their toughest test came against FC Eagles Ladies in what Motseta described as a ‘real battle’. With Eagles needing a win to stay in contention, Emmanuel Queens initially struggled under pressure before the coach made a tactical adjustment that stabilised the club and ultimately secured victory.

Tactically, Motseta’s side showed flexibility, operating mainly with a back four while switching between a 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 formation depending on the situation. Their defensive organisation and ability to attack in transitions proved to be key strengths throughout the tournament.

Motseta also highlighted the long-term vision behind the team’s success, pointing to grassroots development as a major turning point. Starting in 2022, he built a pipeline of young talent through the Emmanuel Youth Development Academy, recruiting girls as young as nine and nurturing them into a competitive unit.

“That was the foundation. I involved parents and focused on discipline. Now we are seeing the results,” he says.

Promotion to the WSL marks a significant milestone for the club, but Motseta is realistic about the challenges ahead. With an average squad age of just 16, strengthening the team with experienced players and securing sponsorship are top priorities.

“These players train barefoot and we sometimes walk to matches. To compete at the next level, we need proper equipment and support,” saysMotseta.

Looking ahead, the club’s immediate goal is survival in the topflight.

“Our primary target is to avoid relegation and reach at least 18 points as early as possible. From there, we will see what happens. We are young, but we are ambitious,” he added.

Motseta also assured supporters that the team will continue to work hard and called for their continued backing as Emmanuel Queens prepare for life in the Women’s Super League.

Newsday

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