- The clash of the titans is for the bragging rights of the capital city and commanding the summit of the league
GAZETTE REPORTER
The mid-week spectacle that promises to ignite the footballing passion of Gaborone will see archrivals Township Rollers and Gaborone United lock horns in the much-anticipated Gaborone derby.
Rescheduled for today (Wednesday), the clash is poised to be a battle not only for local supremacy but also for the coveted number one spot in the Botswana Premier League.
The National Stadium in Gaborone is the arena for this showdown where Popa Popa, as Township Rollers are affectionately known, will play host to Gaborone United, the formidable Money Machine. The kickoff is set for 7pm and the atmosphere is expected to be electric as fans from both camps rally behind their beloved teams.
Popa: 6 victories, 2 draws, 1 defeat
It is Popa Popa that currently holds the reins of the league, occupying the first position with an impressive 20 points after nine games. Under the guidance of Coach Innocent Morapedi, Township Rollers have showcased their prowess, securing six victories, two draws and suffering only one defeat.
The key to their success lies in the lethal boots of Mogakolodi Tsotso Ngele, a prolific goal scorer whose consistency has been the backbone of Rollers’ campaign. Additionally, eyes will be on Segolame Boy, another star player for Rollers, ready to shine in the Gaborone derby.
However, standing in Rollers’ way will be the Money Machine, coached by the tactically astute Pontsho Moloi. Gaborone United currently sits at the second position, breathing down the neck of their rivals with 19 points from eight games.
GU: 6 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat
With a record of six wins, one draw, and one defeat, GU are in prime form. To seize the top spot, they will look to their in-form players, including the dynamic duo of Thatayaone Kgamanyane and Molaodi Tlhalefang, who have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Goalkeeper Thabo Motswagole has also been instrumental, having kept five clean sheets and conceded twice in six encounters so far.
The stakes are high, not just for city bragging rights but for the pole position in the league. A win for Popa will solidify their standing at the helm while GU are keen to dethrone their rivals and claim the throne for themselves.
The result of this intense battle will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the Botswana Premier League, leaving an indelible mark on the footballing landscape of Gaborone.