Gaborone derby lights up FA Cup semis
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday May 26, 2023 15:04
The tie provides both sides with a quantum of solace as the two teams have seemingly lost out in the league championship race. The Blues are chasing their second Orange FA Cup final in four editions. Despite being the second most successful side in the FA Cup, Rollers have failed to lift the Orange Botswana sponsored version.
The team will enter the fixture in a vengeful mode after losing 2-0 to GU in a league match last weekend. To add more pressure on the Blues’ camp, Rollers are yet to get a win over their cross-town rivals this season. A win on Sunday afternoon will give the Popa faithful a moment to savour as the 2023 season nears conclusion.
The team’s head coach, Sergio Traguil is chasing his first silverware and may be one of the quickest tactician to a title as he has been on the job for just six months. Traguil will welcome back the team’s leading goalscorer, Mogakolodi ‘Tsotso’ Ngele from injury. Forward, Mbatshi Elias remains doubtful and is subject to a late fitness test.
Popa will, however, battle it out without centre half, Thabo Babutsi and industrious midfielder, Phenyo Serameng. On the other hand, The Reds are aiming for their third consecutive Orange FA Cup triumph. Moyagoleele is the most successful team in the FA Cup competition with eight wins and is chasing a record ninth title.
The team will have their chests out ahead of the tie having enjoyed a slight dominance over their city rivals. Coach Pontsho Moloi would hope for more from the last derby as he seeks further dominance over Rollers. Moloi may welcome back hard man, Lebogang Ditsele who has missed the match day squad in recent weeks. In the other semi final at the Royal Aria Stadium tomorrow, Orapa United and Masitaoka will battle it out to make their second Orange FA Cup final.
On the first attempt, United went on to win the title in 2020 and is chasing their second Orange FA Cup triumph. Majatlhaga on the other hand is proving to be a tough nut to crack. Despite its minority status, Masitaoka have made it into the tournament’s last four for the second time in four editions. The team came close in 2021 but was denied the title by GU in the final. Both games will kick off at 3pm.