Lioli Football Club’s (FC) recently installed head coach Bongani Maseko has enjoyed a dream start to life at Tse Nala, guiding the Teyateyaneng giants to lift the inaugural T.J. Nthane Foundation Tournament with a 2–0 win over Linare FC last Sunday.
The preseason tournament, held in honour of the 70th birthday of the T.J. Nthane Foundation’s founder, Tšeliso Nthane featured four Foundation-sponsored clubs, Majantja FC, Linare FC, Lioli FC and Maroala FC.
Maseko’s charges showed their attacking intent early on in the competition, overcoming Maroala 3–1 in the semi-finals. Linare had earlier beaten Majantja 2–0 to set up the showdown against Lioli.
In the final, Lioli delivered a commanding performance, sealing the title with a convincing 2–0 win. The victory not only earned the team silverware but also underlined the squad’s readiness for the 2024/2025 season under their new coach.
The win came with a M200,000 cash prize, while Linare collected M100,000 for finishing second. Majantja and Maroala received M50,000 each for their efforts.
There was more to celebrate for Lioli as their players dominated the individual accolades. Forward Thejane Thejane walked away with the Golden Boot and a M2,000 prize, while teammate Sihle Maso, who impressed throughout the competition, was named Best Player and awarded M2,500.
Despite the defeat, Linare’s Moleli Bataung was recognised as Best Goalkeeper and received M2,000.
Speaking after the final whistle, Coach Maseko praised his players for adapting quickly to his methods and putting in performances worthy of champions.
“This team is strong and plays like true champions. The way they approached the games showed their determination to win this trophy. I’m very proud of how the boys performed,” said Maseko.
He expressed optimism for the season ahead, highlighting the team’s focus on greater goals, including national league success and possible continental competition.
Captain Mafa Moremoholo echoed the coach’s sentiments and applauded the squad for showing unity and discipline under new leadership.
“These boys are respectful, they listen, and they follow instructions well. I am proud to lead this group, and I believe we can achieve great things together,” said Moremoholo.
He acknowledged the recent departure of former coach Motheo Mohapi, saying that although it was a tough transition, the team has rallied behind Maseko.
Meanwhile, Linare’s head coach, Teboho Lekhula, took positives from the tournament, viewing it as part of their preseason preparations.
“We have improved compared to last season, where we finished second. We’ll work with the players we have and make a few additions here and there to strengthen the squad,” said Lekhula.
Despite the loss in the final, Lekhula said he was encouraged by his team’s performance, especially as they overcame adversity, including playing a match a man down.
But the spotlight firmly belonged to Lioli and Maseko, whose early success sends a strong message that Tse Nala mean business this season.
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.
