Reigning Vodacom Premier League (VPL) champions Lijabatho FC have embarked on a major restructuring of their technical department ahead of the 2026/27 season, parting ways with key members of the title-winning setup as the club prepares for its maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
The most significant change is the departure of head coach James Madidilane, who recently joined South African side Golden Arrows after guiding the Morija-based outfit to a historic league title. His exit has triggered a broader shake-up within the club’s technical structure, with several senior figures also leaving.
Lijabatho FC Communication and Marketing Manager Mosia Malakane confirmed that the club has parted ways with Technical Director Mokoena Mohapi, Head Coach James Madidilane, Second Assistant Coach Bushi Moletsane and Club Analyst Maile Mokoena.
The departures mark the end of an era for a technical team that played a central role in delivering the club’s first-ever VPL crown and securing qualification for continental football.
In response, the club has already begun rebuilding its technical department. Paradise Moeketsi has been appointed as the new Technical Director, while Tiisetso Molete has been promoted to Assistant Coach.
The champions are also actively searching for a new head coach to replace Madidilane, with indications that the club is targeting a candidate with international exposure to lead the team through the demands of both domestic and continental competition.
Replacing Madidilane will be one of the biggest decisions facing the club. The outgoing coach leaves behind an impressive record after transforming Lijabatho into league champions and establishing them among the country’s leading football institutions.
His successor will be expected not only to defend the league title but also to guide the club through the challenges of competing in the CAF Champions League for the first time.
The technical changes were announced as part of a broader restructuring exercise that also includes adjustments to the playing squad.
In a statement released on June 25, 2026, the club welcomed its latest additions while expressing gratitude to departing personnel.
“We are delighted to officially welcome our new players and technical members to the club. We wish them a successful journey and look forward to seeing them contribute to the team’s ambitions both on and off the field,” the statement read.
“At the same time, we would like to thank the players and technical staff who have been released from the club. Your dedication, commitment, and service have been greatly appreciated. We wish you nothing but success in your future endeavors.”
The statement concluded: “Welcome to our new recruits, and thank you to those moving on. Once a member of our family, always a member of our family.”
Alongside the technical overhaul, Lijabatho have strengthened their squad through several new signings. The club has secured the services of defender Motlomelo Mkwanazi, goalkeeper Motlatsi Sebapala, left-back Mapheelle Manoso, forward Lehlohonolo Fothoane and defender Koketso Kharajane.
The club has also released goalkeeper Jessy Matsie and player Mohami Percy Mohami as part of its preparations for the new season.
The restructuring signals Lijabatho’s determination to build on last season’s success rather than simply preserve the status quo. With continental football looming and expectations rising, club management appears intent on assembling a technical team capable of navigating the increased demands that come with competing on multiple fronts.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as the champions complete their search for a new head coach and continue strengthening both the technical bench and playing squad ahead of what promises to be one of the most important seasons in the club’s history.
BM
Lijabatho ring changes
Seabata Mahao
Reigning Vodacom Premier League (VPL) champions Lijabatho FC have embarked on a major restructuring of their technical department ahead of the 2026/27 season, parting ways with key members of the title-winning setup as the club prepares for its maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
The most significant change is the departure of head coach James Madidilane, who recently joined South African side Golden Arrows after guiding the Morija-based outfit to a historic league title. His exit has triggered a broader shake-up within the club’s technical structure, with several senior figures also leaving.
Lijabatho FC Communication and Marketing Manager Mosia Malakane confirmed that the club has parted ways with Technical Director Mokoena Mohapi, Head Coach James Madidilane, Second Assistant Coach Bushi Moletsane and Club Analyst Maile Mokoena.
The departures mark the end of an era for a technical team that played a central role in delivering the club’s first-ever VPL crown and securing qualification for continental football.
In response, the club has already begun rebuilding its technical department. Paradise Moeketsi has been appointed as the new Technical Director, while Tiisetso Molete has been promoted to Assistant Coach.
The champions are also actively searching for a new head coach to replace Madidilane, with indications that the club is targeting a candidate with international exposure to lead the team through the demands of both domestic and continental competition.
Replacing Madidilane will be one of the biggest decisions facing the club. The outgoing coach leaves behind an impressive record after transforming Lijabatho into league champions and establishing them among the country’s leading football institutions.
His successor will be expected not only to defend the league title but also to guide the club through the challenges of competing in the CAF Champions League for the first time.
The technical changes were announced as part of a broader restructuring exercise that also includes adjustments to the playing squad.
In a statement released on June 25, 2026, the club welcomed its latest additions while expressing gratitude to departing personnel.
“We are delighted to officially welcome our new players and technical members to the club. We wish them a successful journey and look forward to seeing them contribute to the team’s ambitions both on and off the field,” the statement read.
“At the same time, we would like to thank the players and technical staff who have been released from the club. Your dedication, commitment, and service have been greatly appreciated. We wish you nothing but success in your future endeavors.”
The statement concluded: “Welcome to our new recruits, and thank you to those moving on. Once a member of our family, always a member of our family.”
Alongside the technical overhaul, Lijabatho have strengthened their squad through several new signings. The club has secured the services of defender Motlomelo Mkwanazi, goalkeeper Motlatsi Sebapala, left-back Mapheelle Manoso, forward Lehlohonolo Fothoane and defender Koketso Kharajane.
The club has also released goalkeeper Jessy Matsie and player Mohami Percy Mohami as part of its preparations for the new season.
The restructuring signals Lijabatho’s determination to build on last season’s success rather than simply preserve the status quo. With continental football looming and expectations rising, club management appears intent on assembling a technical team capable of navigating the increased demands that come with competing on multiple fronts.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as the champions complete their search for a new head coach and continue strengthening both the technical bench and playing squad ahead of what promises to be one of the most important seasons in the club’s history.
Summary
- Reigning Vodacom Premier League (VPL) champions Lijabatho FC have embarked on a major restructuring of their technical department ahead of the 2026/27 season, parting ways with key members of the title-winning setup as the club prepares for its maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
- The champions are also actively searching for a new head coach to replace Madidilane, with indications that the club is targeting a candidate with international exposure to lead the team through the demands of both domestic and continental competition.
- The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as the champions complete their search for a new head coach and continue strengthening both the technical bench and playing squad ahead of what promises to be one of the most important seasons in the club’s history.
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.
