Seabata Mahao
Mafeteng giants Bantu Football Club (FC) continued their perfect start to the 2024/25 premier league season by cruising to a 3-0 victory over newcomers Mzamane FC in their during a match held at the Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena in Maseru.
The match was among the catch-up fixtures following postponements due to bad weather conditions during the league’s opening weekend.
Bantu got on the scoresheet early, with Lehlohonolo Fothoane netting in the 10th minute. Tšeliso Botsane extended the lead in the 49th minute, followed by a third goal from Kalake in the 55th minute.
In a post-match interview, Bantu’s Head Coach James Madidilane expressed his satisfaction with the performance, noting missed opportunities but emphasizing the strong showing in the second half.
“I am happy as this is our second match of the premier league. If we can maintain the performance we displayed during the second half, then we are good,” said Madidilane.
Despite dealing with several injuries, Madidilane is confident his team will be prepared for their next match against LMPS FC on Saturday.
In their opening match of the season, Bantu brushed aside another newly promoted side, Majantja FC by a 2-0 score line.
Liteboho Ramantsoe, Mzamane FC’s Head Coach noted the difficulty his team faced in adapting to the warmer conditions in Maseru compared to their colder base in Mokhotlong. Ramantsoe highlighted that Bantu did not press aggressively when Mzamane held the ball, which allowed his team to create opportunities, especially in the first half. However, Mzamane was unlucky to capitalise on these chances.
Ramantsoe also emphasised the challenges his newly promoted side faces, including unfamiliarity with other premier league teams and financial constraints that force them to rely on local players from villages. He promised an improved performance as the team gains more experience in the league.
In other league results, Linare FC claimed a 2-1 win over Limkokwing University (LU) FC, while Lesotho Correctional Services (LCS) FC played to a 1-1 draw against ACE Maseru FC at Ratjomose Ground in Maseru.
The Premier League will this weekend pause for the Maluti Mountain Cement Charity Cup, scheduled for October 5 in Mafeteng. This will be followed by the FIFA international break, during which Lesotho’s national team, Likuena, will continue its Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers from October 7 to 15.
