Lesotho’s second tier football scene is set for another thrilling chapter as the A Division Management Committee (ADMACO), in partnership with Nedbank Lesotho officially launched the 2026 Nedbank 8 Tournament.
The competition, one of the most anticipated fixtures on the local football calendar, will kick off this weekend with quarterfinal matches played across Saturday and Sunday.
The semi-finals are scheduled for May 16 and 17 at BambathaTšita Stadium, where the remaining teams will battle for a place in the final.
In a major boost to the tournament, Nedbank Lesotho has committed a sponsorship package worth M350,000, reaffirming its long-standing support for grassroots football development in the country.
Speaking during the official draw, SekonyelaMatamane, representing the bank, said this is a reflection of Nedbank’s continued commitment to supporting sports development and empowering Basotho talent to thrive on and off the field.
“Our bank’s longstanding partnership with the A-Division Management Committee (ADMACO) is true testament to how we ensure that a solid foundation is supported to enhance the quality at the top tier leagues,” Matamane said.
“We are always proud to see how competitive the A-Division products, teams and players promoted to the premier, hold their own against the best in the land. It remains important to invite other partners to give due consideration in the development phase across all sporting codes, as all stakeholders also do their bit to optimise the broader ecosystem including sustainably managed facilities.”
He further highlighted Nedbank’s broader regional footprint across sub-Saharan Africa, including operations in South Africa, Mozambique, eSwatini, and Zimbabwe, noting that such partnerships are key to building sustainable sports ecosystems.
“We recognise that football plays a critical role in society. Sponsorship is just one component of a larger ecosystem that includes infrastructure, media growth, and player training,” he said.
“Our goal is to see the sport professionalized to a level where all stakeholders—from players to officials, can benefit economically.”
He further stressed the importance of football as a driver of economic activity, noting that improved facilities and structured competitions can open opportunities for businesses and contribute to national growth.
ADMACO Chairman KatisoLebitsa praised Nedbank for its unwavering commitment since the inception of the partnership eight years ago.
“From the very beginning, they have stood with us, showing consistent dedication to grassroots football,” Lebitsa said.
“It has not been an easy journey, but with partners like Nedbank, we continue to push forward.”
Lebitsa also acknowledged the challenges facing local football, particularly the lack of adequate sponsorship and infrastructure, which often hampers talent development.
“Lesotho has talent, but without financial support, it becomes difficult to fully develop it. We are engaging with the government to improve facilities and ensure long-term growth,” he added.
ADMACO Vice Chairman LehlohonoloMakatjane echoed similar sentiments, urging participating teams to raise their level of competition.
“We congratulate the teams that have qualified and encourage them to showcase the strength and vibrancy of A Division football,” he said.
This year’s tournament comes with a notable twist, as defending champions Quthing LMPS will not be part of the competition, leaving the field wide open for a new winner.
Among the frontrunners is Kick4Life Juventude FC, who are determined to break their streak of near misses after losing two consecutive Nedbank Top 8 finals.
The club’s Marketing and Communications Officer, LerotholiPhatela, expressed confidence in their chances.
“We are aiming to win the cup this year and follow it up with the Champions of Champions title. Winning this competition will boost morale and strengthen our ambitions after already securing the league.” Phatela said
Summary
- In a major boost to the tournament, Nedbank Lesotho has committed a sponsorship package worth M350,000, reaffirming its long-standing support for grassroots football development in the country.
- Speaking during the official draw, SekonyelaMatamane, representing the bank, said this is a reflection of Nedbank’s continued commitment to supporting sports development and empowering Basotho talent to thrive on and off the field.
- “Our bank’s longstanding partnership with the A-Division Management Committee (ADMACO) is true testament to how we ensure that a solid foundation is supported to enhance the quality at the top tier leagues,” Matamane said.
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.
