History was made under the bright Maseru city sky as Lioli FC etched their name into Lesotho football folklore last Sunday, clinching the 2024/2025 Vodacom Premier League (VPL) title with a goalless, yet glorious draw against LCS FC.
While the scoreboard at PTC Ground showed 0–0, the emotions on the pitch and in the stands told a story of triumph, resilience, and unity.
With just one point needed to seal the deal, Lioli played with calculated caution and tactical discipline to cross the finish line and lift their second consecutive league title, one round early.
Their 68-point tally now puts them beyond the reach of fierce rivals Matlama FC, who trail at 64 points with a single match left. But this was not just a numbers game.
It was a season-long battle fought with grit and belief, and at the heart of it stood the ever-passionate Lioli’s head coach, Motheo Mohapi.
After the match, the coach was visibly emotional, his voice carrying the weight of a campaign filled with highs and hidden hurdles.
“It was not an easy road. From the outside it may look smooth, but this season came with its own battles. Fortunately, this time around, the players fully understood the system we have built together,” Mohapi reflected, with a proud glint in his eye and a voice rich with meaning.
He did not just lift a trophy, he reignited a legacy. His tactical mind, unwavering faith in his squad, and connection with the fanbase were key ingredients in a title-winning recipe that will be remembered for years to come.
And now, in a dramatic, ground-breaking move that has captured the imagination of football lovers across the nation, Mohapi has decided to hand the reins, partially, to the supporters.
“I have made decisions in the past that left some fans disappointed. This time, I want to give them a voice. They have walked this journey with us, and it’s only right that they have their moment on the pitch as well, even if symbolically.”
He announced that the starting XI for their final match against LU FC will be chosen by the supporters themselves.
It is a move as bold as it is heartfelt, reflecting a coach deeply aware of his bond with the terraces. The announcement sparked jubilation among fans, many calling it the perfect coronation gesture for a season defined by shared purpose.
And all eyes now turn to Saturday’s coronation showdown in Berea, where Lioli will host LU, not just to lift the trophy, but to honour the supporters who danced with them through every goal, groan, and glorious moment.
Mission Accomplished
Meanwhile, as the champions prepare for a festive home finale, Mohapi’s future at the club remains uncertain. While fans sang his name last Sunday, the coach offered a sobering yet proud reflection:
“This was my mission, to restore the dignity of this club. Whether I stay or not next season, I’ll leave knowing we achieved that.”
Another Close Shave
Matlama FC, Lioli’s perennial shadow, once again pushed them to the wire. Last season, they nearly stole the title in the dying weeks. This year, they remained a threat until the penultimate round, refusing to let Lioli rest easy. But this time, Lioli stood firm, steady hands on the wheel, and crossed the line like true champions.
Storm Clouds for Mzamane, ACE Maseru
At the opposite end of the table, the mood is far less celebratory. Relegation pressure is weighing heavily on Mzamane FC and ACE Maseru. Despite Mzamane’s morale-boosting 3–1 win over LU FC, they’re not out of the woods yet.
“We have had a tough season. A lot of close games did not go our way, and time wasn’t on our side. But we’re learning, and our journey is not over,” said Mzamane spokesperson Mohlalefi Kokoropo, a statement that mixes grit with grim realism.
ACE Maseru’s 1–0 defeat to Liphakoe FC was another blow, leaving them clinging to survival ahead of a decisive final matchday.
Weekend Results – District League (May 17–18, 2025)
Saturday, May 17
- Mzamane FC 3 – 1 Limkokwing University FC
- Lijabatho FC 2 – 0 Majantja FC
- Liphakoe FC 1 – 0 Ace Maseru FC
- Machokha FC 1 – 0 LMPS FC
Sunday, May 18
- Lioli FC 0 – 0 LCS FC
- Lifofane FC 2 – 1 Bantu FC
- Matlama FC 2 – 0 Linare FC
- LDF FC 2 – 0 Manonyane FC
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.
