the monitor

Galaxy flexes muscles in transfer market

Benson Mangolo. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG
Benson Mangolo. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG

National champions, Jwaneng Galaxy, are already showing no signs of slowing down despite winning the Botswana Premier League (BPL) and the Orange FA Cup double last season.

They have already announced six new signings ahead of next season. With also the CAF Champions League participation in mind, Galaxy have so far reinforced their striking force with the acquisition of proven goal poacher, Onkabetse Makgantai. The latter joined Lesagaripa from TAFIC on a two-year deal. Galaxy already have two other goal poachers in Thabang Sesinyi and Omaatla Kebatho, who spent the better part of last season on the sidelines due to injury. Makgantai’s arrival will be vital for Galaxy’s CAF Champions League campaign following the departure of Zimbabwean attacker, Daniel Msedami, who has joined Marumo Gallants in South Africa.

Galaxy have also signed former TAFIC’s marksman and the sought-after-striker, Thabiso Bante, on a two-year deal. With the future looking bleak for Masitaoka, Galaxy have taken advantage and signed Olebogeng Ramotse. The former Masitaoka captain is expected to bolster Galaxy’s creative midfield, which already boasts of players such as Gift Moyo and Gilbert Baruti. He is joined by his former teammate, Victor James, who has also signed a two-year contract with the champions. Galaxy have also signed Lesotho international, Neo Mokgachane. The 28-year old spent the whole of last season at VTM. Galaxy released six players to cater for new signings.

Besides Msedami who has moved to South Africa, the Jwaneng based side has also parted ways with Kabelo Bausi, Kitso Mpuisang, Mpho Kgomo, Elkanah Nyathi and Gaamanngwe Sethibe. Players such as Thatayaone Ramatlapeng, Ryan Brown Chicco Molefe and Martin Daka, among others have been put on loan transfer list. Galaxy are currently in South Africa to play some pre-season friendly games in preparation for the continental competition. They are the most successful local side in the CAF Champions League, having reached the group stages two times in a row. They face Namibian side, African Stars, in the preliminary round and likely to meet South African giants, Orlando Pirates, in the second round if both sides win their first round matches.

Editor's Comment
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While the political shift brings hope for change, it also places immense pressure on the new administration to deliver on its election promises in the face of serious economic challenges.On another level, newly appointed Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe’s grim assessment of the country’s finances adds urgency to the moment. The budget deficit, expected to be P8.7 billion, is now anticipated to be even higher due to underperforming diamond...

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