In true celebratory style, the T.J. Nthane Foundation is marking the 70th birthday of its illustrious founder with a football spectacle set to thrill fans across Lesotho.
Backed by a M500, 000 sponsorship, the tournament brings together top-flight teams in a one-day knockout showdown guaranteed to stir excitement and sporting passion.
The much-anticipated tournament was officially launched on Monday at BMI Stadium in Berea, with the action culminating on June 15 at the iconic Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena in Maseru.
A total of four teams, each hailing from districts where the foundation’s affiliated businesses operate, will vie for glory: Majantja FC (Mohale’s Hoek), Linare FC (Leribe), Lioli FC and Maroala FC (both from Berea).
The knockout format features two fiery semi-finals: Match 1 pits Linare FC against Majantja FC, while Match 2 sees Lioli FC square off with Maroala FC. The winners will clash in the final later that day, promising a jam-packed football feast for fans.
Of the M500, 000 sponsorship, M100, 000 is earmarked for event logistics, while the lion’s share, M400, 000, will be split among the participating teams.
The stakes are high: M200, 000 awaits the tournament champions, M100, 000 goes to the runners-up, and the remaining two teams will each walk away with M50, 000.
To spice things up even more, individual accolades will be awarded to standout performers, including Top Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, and Player of the Match for each game.
Speaking on behalf of Lioli FC, Club President Lebohang Thotanyana expressed appreciation for the tournament’s timely support.
“We are very grateful for the consistent support from businesses under the T.J. Nthane Foundation. These matches are not only in celebration of the founder’s 70th birthday but also a chance for us to express our gratitude.”
He also hailed the tournament as a golden opportunity for pre-season preparation, especially as Lioli gears up for the CAF competitions in the 2024/25 season. Thotanyana confirmed that the tournament had received the green light from LEFA.
Meanwhile, Teboho Shelile, Chairperson of the T.J. Nthane Foundation, revealed that the tournament is not just about football, it is part of a broader celebration.
“We appeal to supporters to maintain proper behavior during the tournament. If all goes well, this could become an annual event.”
He added that the event also commemorates 20 years of the founder’s hospitality ventures, which include hotels in Mohale’s Hoek, Berea, and Leribe.
The tournament is more than just a birthday bash, it is a powerful nod to the social and economic impact of sport. As communities rally behind their local teams, the T.J. Nthane Foundation continues to showcase how business, sport, and social upliftment can work hand-in-hand.
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