As the dust settles on the drama-filled 2024/25 campaign, Lesotho football fans are gearing up for another rollercoaster ride when the 2025/26 Vodacom Premier League kicks off tomorrow.
Reigning Vodacom Premier League (VPL) champions Lioli FC will headline the opening weekend as they launch their title defense against league newcomers Members FC.
The clash sets the stage for a fascinating showdown; the experience of a decorated giant against the fearless ambition of a debutant. For Lioli, it is about stamping authority; for Members, it is about proving they belong.
Elsewhere, Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) FC will welcome Maroala FC, the other newly promoted side, in another intriguing fixture. Both Members and Maroala earned their places in the country’s top flight by clinching the A Division South and North Stream titles, respectively.
Their arrival injects fresh storylines, youthful hunger, and the promise of new rivalries into the league.
For Members FC, Saturday’s encounter is nothing short of a baptism of fire. Facing the reigning champions in your very first Premier League game is daunting, yet club president Lekhooa Mlani Tšolo insists the team is ready for the challenge.
“We have played several friendly matches before the season starts, and the club seems well-prepared to compete with established clubs,” Tšolo told Newsday Sports.
“The players are in good shape, and the coach is pleased with their condition.”
Members tested their mettle during the pre-season Ramela Cup, taking on Agric College, a match that Tšolo described as vital in gauging readiness and identifying weaknesses.
The team has also benefited from continuity in leadership, with head coach Mahlomola Moea and his assistant Ntlaloe Ntlaloe retained to steer the club through uncharted waters.
“There have been no changes in our technical team. We believe in our coaching staff and their ability to guide the team effectively,” Tšolo added.
Over in Leribe, Maroala FC are also preparing for their big step into the top tier. Head coach Kenny Mohooanyane admitted the transition has been far from easy.
“Preparations have been intense. Transitioning from the A Division has not been easy, especially because we had to rebuild the squad,” Mohooanyane said.
The coach conceded that defensive frailties have been a concern in pre-season, but he expressed confidence that the club’s new signings will plug the gaps.
“We have been working hard to strengthen the defense, and I’m confident the new players will help us compete effectively. We want to make our fans proud. We know the expectations are high, and we are ready to rise to the occasion,” he explained.
As Members and Maroala rise, others have fallen. Mzamane FC and Ace Maseru were relegated to the A Division following difficult campaigns, making way for the new blood that will now test itself against Lesotho’s elite.
Summary
- Both Members and Maroala earned their places in the country’s top flight by clinching the A Division South and North Stream titles, respectively.
- Facing the reigning champions in your very first Premier League game is daunting, yet club president Lekhooa Mlani Tšolo insists the team is ready for the challenge.
- The coach conceded that defensive frailties have been a concern in pre-season, but he expressed confidence that the club’s new signings will plug the gaps.
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.
