Seabata Mahao
Lioli Football Club (FC) is on a determined journey to revive its former glory, aiming to reclaim its position at the summit of Lesotho football after enduring a challenging period in recent years.
As the 2023/24 Vodacom Premier League (VPL) season draws to a close, Lioli finds itself locked in a gripping title race with Matlama FC, both teams sitting joint-top of the league table with 64 points each. Lioli’s recent 1-0 victory over fellow contenders Bantu FC has reignited their hopes of clinching the championship, with only goal difference separating them from Matlama.
Expressing satisfaction with his team’s performance, Lioli’s head coach, Motheo Mohapi, emphasised the collective effort in executing their game plan effectively against Bantu FC. Mohapi stressed the significance of the remaining two matches, highlighting Lioli’s aspirations to not only secure the league title but also to restore the club’s dignity, which has been tarnished in recent years.
Mohapi’s sentiments reflect Lioli’s unwavering determination to reclaim its status as a football powerhouse in Lesotho. The club’s ambition goes beyond mere silverware; it’s about reinstating pride and honor in the Lioli name.
In contrast, Bantu FC’s head coach, James Madidilane, acknowledged his team’s shortcomings in the match against Lioli, attributing the loss to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Despite their impressive performance, Bantu FC’s title aspirations have taken a hit, leaving Lioli and Matlama to battle it out for supremacy.
While the focus remains on the title race, the relegation battle looms for teams like Naughty Boys FC, who face an uphill struggle with only 10 points collected so far. The fate of CCX FC and ACE Maseru FC hangs in the balance, as both teams are tied on 18 points and face the threat of relegation.
As the league action intensifies, this weekend’s fixtures promise more excitement. Lioli will take on Lifofane FC away, while LMPS FC hosts Naughty Boys FC. Liphakoe FC welcomes Manonyane FC, and LU FC hosts ACE Maseru FC. Sunday’s matchups include LCS FC versus Matlama FC, CCX FC versus Bantu FC, Machokha FC versus Linare FC, and Lijabatho FC versus LDF FC.
With the season nearing its climax, the battle lines are drawn, setting the stage for thrilling encounters as teams vie for supremacy and survival in the Vodacom Premier League.
