Morija giants silence Matlama 1-0 to lift the 2025/26 Vodacom Premier League title at Setsoto Stadium
Mahlomola Letsie
In a historic and emotional afternoon at Setsoto Stadium, Lijabatho Football Club were crowned the 2025/26 Vodacom Premier League champions after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Matlama on Saturday.
The Morija-based outfit capped a memorable campaign in front of an estimated 3,000 jubilant supporters, who erupted in celebration as the final whistle confirmed their title triumph and the accompanying M650,000 prize.
Lijabatho approached the decisive clash with discipline and composure against Tse Putsoa. Jersey number 30, Bokang Sello, was one of the standout performers in the first half. The experienced forward, who has previously turned out for Bantu, Lioli and Police XI in Botswana, posed a constant threat with his sharp movement and attacking intent.
Versatile utility player Tšotleho “Sonny” Jane also produced a strong display, controlling the tempo and inspiring confidence among his teammates before making way for Atang Mthimo late in the second half.
The game’s decisive moment arrived in the 55th minute when coach Tsatsi James Madidilane introduced Jane Thabantšo. The substitution proved inspired as Thabantšo broke the deadlock in the 67th minute with a clinical finish that sent the Lijabatho faithful into ecstasy.
Drama followed just two minutes later when Lijabatho defender Mohlomi Makhetha handled the ball in the penalty area. Referee Samson Molelekoa pointed to the spot, but Teboho Thatho failed to convert as Lijabatho goalkeeper Monaheng Ramalefane produced a heroic save against his former club.
Ramalefane’s intervention proved decisive as Lijabatho held firm to secure the famous 1-0 win and seal the championship. Tlotliso Phatsitsi, jersey number 35, was named Player of the Match for his commanding performance throughout the encounter.
Despite finishing fourth on the table, Matlama supporters showed admirable sportsmanship after the final whistle. Goal scorer Thabantšo walked over to the Matlama section, where fans handed him flowers in a touching gesture of appreciation.
In the final standings, Lifofane of Botha-Bothe claimed second place, while Bantu finished third.
High-profile dignitaries in attendance included His Royal Highness Prince Lerotholi, Sports Minister Motlatsi Maqelepo, and LSRC president Baba Malephane, who all participated in the medal presentation ceremony.
Former Likuena legend and current Lijabatho assistant coach Bushy Moletsane was visibly emotional. Speaking after the match, Moletsane said the title was his seventh championship medal overall but his first as an assistant coach since retiring from playing. He credited the success to discipline, teamwork and collective hard work under head coach Madidilane.
For the Lijabatho faithful, this triumph will remain one of the most cherished chapters in the club’s history as the Morija giants etched their names into Lesotho football folklore.
Summary
- In a historic and emotional afternoon at Setsoto Stadium, Lijabatho Football Club were crowned the 2025/26 Vodacom Premier League champions after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Matlama on Saturday.
- The Morija-based outfit capped a memorable campaign in front of an estimated 3,000 jubilant supporters, who erupted in celebration as the final whistle confirmed their title triumph and the accompanying M650,000 prize.
- The substitution proved inspired as Thabantšo broke the deadlock in the 67th minute with a clinical finish that sent the Lijabatho faithful into ecstasy.
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