Seabata Mahao
The 2022/23 A-Division League season is reaching its business end with ACE Maseru FC having all but won the south stream with two matches to play.
The Maseru-based is currently leading the south stream log with 39 points and a goal difference of 21 after playing 16 games.
It is followed by Likhopo FC in second place with 30 points. This means that even if Likhopo were to win their two remaining games and ACE losses both, the former would collect a maximum of 36 points, which is not enough to topple ACE from the pole position.
By virtue of winning the south stream, ACE will automatically gain promotion to the Vodacom Premier League (VPL) starting from the 2023/24 season.
A winner of the north stream will also be promoted to the top flight.
Sehene hene FC is leading the north stream log with 27 points from 14 games. It is followed by Lilemela FC with 27 points from the same number of games.
Litšilo FC is facing relegation in the north stream, while AC Milan is also facing the axe in the south stream.
In an interview with A-Division League spokesperson, Mokhosi Letsie said following the conclusion of the league games, there would be a clash of champions match called a ‘decider’ to see who the champions of the A-Division League are.
The match pits south stream winners against north stream winners.
He explained said the winners of both streams would be awarded medals, trophies, and undisclosed prize money, in addition to being promoted to the premier league.
“Our league is strongly growing even though we are still dependent on Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) for funds and sponsorship. All these teams have shown strength and hope for Lesotho football,â€
“Post the winter break, the top eight football clubs will participate in their only cup tournament sponsored by Nedbank Lesotho,†Letsie said.
Matches for this weekend in the south stream will see Quthing LMPS going head-on against Majantja at Quthing Pitso Ground on Saturday. Sefothafotha YS will take on Qoaling Highlanders at LDF Ratjomose.
On Sunday, ACE Maseru will welcome AC Milan at LDF Ratjomose, Qacha LMPS FC goes head to head with Roma Boys FC at Melele Stadium and Likhopo FC go against Members FC at Semonkong Stadium.
In the north stream, BB Warriors will face Rovers Botha-Bothe Pitso Ground and Litšilo will welcome Maroala at Pitseng Leribe Grounds.
Then on Sunday, CF RYDO will face LU FC at LCS Grounds and Sehenehene will face Lilemela at Mabote Grounds while Mzamane FC is on standby.
