Local fans will not have to wait long for the headline fixture between traditional giants, Gaborone United and Township Rollers, as the two clash on the first day of the new FNB Premiership next month.
The Botswana Football League (BFL) released the 2024–2025 season fixtures today, with the clash between GU and Rollers the highlight of day one. The season ahead is expected to be exciting as there is a title sponsor, FNB Botswana for the first time in four years while sleeping giants, Extension Gunners and Mochudi Centre Chiefs have found their way back to the top division via the 'back door'. Gunners and Chiefs had to acquire Jwaneng Young Stars and Masitaoka space in the Premier League as they found it tough to gain promotion back to the top flight.
While the return of the prodigal sons will catch the eye on Day One, it is two teams that have become the league's torch-bearers in GU and Rollers that will have the red carpet. The two clash at the National Stadium on September 21. New boys, Chadibe start their first ever Premier League campaign away to Orapa United while Chiefs travel to Palapye to face Morupule Wanderers. Gunners will be home on their return as they face Sua Flamingoes at the Lobatse Sports Complex. In other opening weekend fixtures, TAFIC and Nico United clash in the northern derby, while defending champions, Jwaneng Galaxy face VTM FC. The future of VTM was uncertain after club owner, Vincent Mafuta indicated they were ceasing operations as a professional club. Returning rookies, Flamingo Santos start their campaign away to Security Systems. Army boys, BDF XI play Matebele to complete the first round of fixtures of what should be an interesting season.
