23 Feb 2023

 Orange FA Cup will commence in style in the north as the premier league outfit Eleven Angels take on the newly promoted First Division North league side, Mbalakalungu at Kasane Prisons Grounds on Saturday.

The duo’s encounter will be among eight matches that will be played over the weekend in various stadia in the north.

Eleven Angels are favourites and their recent league victory against Mogoditshane Fighters warmed the hearts of their followers.

Despite playing in the first division league, Mbalakalungu cannot be taken lightly. They may just cause an upset as they know each other from the first division league.

In an interview, Eleven Angels coach, Seemo Mpatane, said it would be an open game between two quality sides.

He said his boys were ready to take ‘the bull by its horns’ come Saturday, adding that he was glad to face Mbalakalungu without injuries. “I cannot avoid changes as we have been playing consecutive games in the premier league and some of my players are exhausted,” he added.

Mpatane said his side had been training to match their opponents’ fitness, adding that they would give their all during the game.

“We don’t want to be caught napping and as such we are taking Mbalakalungu seriously because teams have a tendency of defying those from premier league. If we relax, they might defeat us,” he added.  

Mbalakalungu head coach, Nchunga Lebuku, could not be reached for comment as his cellphone ran unanswered.

However, football critics opined that Mbalakalungu will take advantage of playing in their home ground to overcome the visitors.

The weekend will also see Serowe-based arch rivals Green Lovers and Miscellaneous locking horns at Serowe Sports Complex on Saturday.

Selebi Phikwe’s Super Stars United will play against Etsha Morning Stars at Sam Sono Stadium in Selebi Phikwe on Saturday.

Chadibe will meet Mogorosi Daillers in Serowe on Saturday.

On Sunday, Zowa United will face Bobonong outfit, Peace Makers at Diamond Chiefs Grounds whilst Nico United will travel to face Dukwi at Dukwi grounds on Sunday.

Rolling Guys will face Mahalapye outfit Santa Greens at BR stadium on Sunday.

Sankoyo Bush Bucks will play Masterpiece at Matlhakola Primary School grounds in  Palapye on Saturday.

All games start at 4pm except for the Green Lovers and Miscellaneous encounter which will be played at 7pm. Ends