Chiefs, Angels face-off in promotion push
Chakalisa Dube | Saturday June 11, 2022 06:00
Chiefs earned the right to participate in the playoffs after coming second in the First Division South league while Angels were runners-up in the north. ‘Lekgamu la bananyana’ as Angels are popularly called, are under the mentorship of one of their co-founders Seemo Mpatane. They are in their third season in the First Division and qualifying for the premier league would be one of their major highlights. Despite qualifying for the play-offs, Angels have not had a very good season as they have been inconsistent.
Even their mentor admitted towards the end of the season that with a bit of consistency, his side could have fought for automatic promotion to the Premier League. On other hand, Chiefs have looked like a much-transformed side since the beginning of the second round. They started off badly and did not look like strong contenders.
The two clubs also vary in terms of support and resources. In recent weeks Chiefs, one of the biggest sides in the country, have seen a surge in attendance for their home games, something that has contributed a lot to their coffers. The visitors should expect a very hostile crowd in Mochudi. Chiefs’ promotion push also received a massive boost after they were given P200,000 cash sponsorship by one of the local entrepreneurs recently. By virtue of their superb financial position, Chiefs will expectedly be able to prepare well for the clash. Angels do not enjoy massive financial backing or support. They, however, boast a youthful squad that can cause an upset. Talisman, Desmond Mtukufa will inevitably be the man to watch on Sunday and so is skipper Bakang Mpatane.
This season Mtukufa has cemented his status as one of the best forwards in the league. At one point this season, he scored seven goals in five consecutive matches, including one in the FA Cup.
Chiefs will pin their hopes on seasoned campaigners such as Arnold Mampori and former Jwaneng Galaxy attacking midfielder, Khumoetsile Kufigwa. The two players have been instrumental for Magosi this season. Former TAFIC forward, Bokamoso Mbambo has also chipped in with some vital goals, especially in matches where everything seemed not to be going very well for Chiefs. Magosi coach, Thatayaone Tebele is aware of the challenges that Angels might pose over the weekend. “This is a very crucial game for us.
We are expecting a high-intensity game because we are playing a very youthful side. Youthful players are known for playing their pace and intense approach to the game,” Tebele said. He added that they will be banking on home support on Sunday. “The first leg match should be a match that should ensure that we have one foot in the Premier League.” Angels coach, Mpatane said qualifying for the play-offs was a special moment for his club but said that he is not willing to divulge too much regarding their plans for the Chiefs match. “The most important thing for us will be to remain calm and [maintain] focus for the entire match. We should not get carried away,” he said.