We are building a team for continental stage- Malete

Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Tuesday May 19, 2026 08:50

Magosi, as the team is called, continued their impressive run after edging Orapa United 2-1 in an entertaining Orange FA Cup semi-final played at the National Stadium on Saturday evening.

The victory booked Chiefs a place in the Season 7 final where they will face Jwaneng Galaxy in what promises to be a mouth-watering encounter between the in-form Kgatleng side and the defending champions.

Speaking after the match, Malete said the club’s ambition stretches beyond local success, insisting Chiefs are laying a foundation for continental football.

“We want to build a team for Africa. That is the vision of the club. “We have been consistent this season and we believe we have been the better team in the league in 2026,” he said.

Malete believes the side has shown tremendous growth this season, competing strongly against title rivals including Gaborone United (GU).

He said the squad has displayed character, discipline, and maturity in crucial matches.

“Our performances this year have shown that we are moving in the right direction. The players are responding well to the project and the supporters can see the progress,” Malete added.

Chiefs started brightly against Orapa United and looked dangerous going forward from the opening exchanges.

Their attacking approach paid dividends as they took the lead through a well taken shot by Kutlwelo Mpolokang. Chiefs went to the break leading 1-0. Orapa fought back in the second half, looking to bounce back.

With pressure mounting, Chiefs midfielder, Theo Shadikong was sent for an early shower after getting his second yellow card for a dangerous tackle.

However, Magosi were quick to respond to that with veteran Zimbabwean striker, Evans Rusike grabbing the winner to seal passage to the final. Although Orapa were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute which Otiniel Nsungu calmly slotted home, it was too as Chiefs held on for a win.

The victory sparked celebrations among the large Chiefs following at the National Stadium, with supporters sensing the possibility of ending the season with silverware.

Malete credited the players for maintaining focus under pressure in a tightly contested encounter.

“It was not an easy game because Orapa United is a very competitive side. But the boys showed determination and tactical discipline. We knew we had to be patient and take our chances,” he said.

Attention now turns to the final against Galaxy, a side that has dominated local football in recent seasons. Malete acknowledged the challenge awaiting his team but expressed confidence that Chiefs can rise to the occasion. Chiefs have enjoyed a resurgence this season and remain among the most improved sides in the league with the club how sitting on position three.

Their performances have reignited hopes among supporters that the club can reclaim its place among the country’s elite and eventually make a mark in continental competitions.

With the FA Cup final looming, Magosi will be eager to crown their impressive campaign with a major trophy and further underline their ambitions for African football.

Teams Chiefs: Keeagile Kgosipula, Ernest Kgosietsile, Mpolokang, Shanganani Ngada, Gilbert Baruti, (Resaobaka Thatanyane), Shadikong, Aitor Aldalur, Hendrick Moyo, (Moloi Thuto), Rusike, Ronaldo Fortune, (Monty Enosa), Nahuel Nicolas Melgarejo

Orapa: Gaolatlhe Tshupegetso, Botsile Sakana, Gothusang Osego, Kemoneetswe Mmangwedi, Thabo Babutsi, (Botsile kebaikanye), Ricky Ratlhogo, Gofaone Mabaya, (Gauthier Kalombo), Amogelang Reetsang, Nsungu, Ernest Ngwaga, (Thabiso Bante), Oarabile Sekwai, (Teboho Letsema)

Chiefs 2 (Mpolokang 7th, Rusike 56th) Orapa 1 (Nsungu 73rd)