The clash between two of Botswana’s most storied football clubs in Botswana, Gaborone United and Township Rollers, will mark the beginning of the 2024-25 FNB Premiership season on Friday 4th October and a prelude to what should be a more competitive league, thanks to FNB Botswana’s recent injection of more moolah
GAZETTE REPORTER
As the launch of the 2024-25 FNB Premiership season nears, anticipation is building to fever-pitch across Botswana’s football community.
The highlight of the opening weekend is an iconic Gaborone derby featuring Gaborone United and Township Rollers in a clash that is expected to electrify the National Stadium on Friday 4th October.
Adding to the excitement is FNB Botswana’s recent announcement of a three-year, P28.5 million sponsorship deal. With P9.5 million allocated to each season, the financial boost is expected to elevate the league by enhancing club investment in talent.
Clash of the Titans
The Gaborone derby is much more than just another match but a battle between two of Botswana’s most storied football clubs, Gaborone United and Township Rollers.
Drawing thousands of passionate fans from across the capital and its environs, the match symbolises the eminence of the beautiful game in Botswana and fierce rivalry.
Nicknamed the “Money Machine,” Gaborone United will be looking to claim the city’s bragging rights under head coach Pontsho Moloi.
GU’s key signings
The team has bolstered its squad with several key signings, among them Boniface Ramolale, Ezekiel Morake, Elkanah Nyathi, Rameez Dharsey, Mannered Matsikidze, and Thabo Maponda.
Their pre-season preparations have been robust, featuring tournaments at their training facility and a notable match against South African Premier Division side, SuperSport United.
Meanwhile, Township Rollers, also known as “Popa Popa,” is determined to reverse its fortunes after a mixed performance last season.
Popa’s high-profile signings
Now backed by new investors in the Sebata Group, the team has made several high-profile signings, including Mothusi Cooper, Botshelo Mangena, Ambrosius Amseb, and Christopher Lemme.
Under the guidance of new head coach Mogomotsi Mpote, Rollers have completed a rigorous pre-season, including a two-week training camp in Rustenburg, South Africa recently.
Last season’s meetings between the two sides were split, with Rollers winning the first round 2-1 only for Gaborone United to exact revenge in the second round with a 2-0 victory.
Other key fixtures
Friday’s derby promises to be another tightly-contested battle, with both clubs eager to start the season on a high note. Still on Friday Orapa United will take on rookies in Chadibe FC at Itekeng Stadium in Orapa, they game is scheduled to commence at 18:00 hrs.
While the Gaborone Derby will capture much of the attention, several other exciting matchups are scheduled for the Premiership’s opening weekend.
At BIAC Stadium on Saturday 5 October, BDF XI will face Matebele FC at 3.30pm. Morupule Wanderers will take on Mochudi Centre Chiefs at Palapye Stadium at 3.30pm while TAFIC FC will host Nico United in Francistown’s Sports Complex.
Financial boost
Also beginning on at 3.30pm on Saturday, Extension Gunners will battle Sua Flamingoes at Lobatse Sports Complex, VTM FC will take on Jwaneng Galaxy at the VTM Arena.
On Sunday 6 October, Security Systems will go head-to-head with Flamengo Santos at Lobatse Sports Complex at 3.30pm, rounding off a weekend of thrilling football.
Meanwhile, the FNB sponsorship comes at a crucial time for Botswana football to provide a much-needed financial lifeline. This infusion of cash is expected to raise the overall standard of the league and contribute to a more competitive and exciting season.