13 Jul 2014

A testimonial match to honour football legend, Diphetogo ‘Dipsy’ Selolwane saw Gaborone United lose 4-3 to Platinum Stars in a penalty shoot-out.

The game between the South Africa-based club and the local soccer giants was a tight affair which ended in a 1-1 deadlock and had to be decided on penalties.

First half goals from GU’s Tendai Nyamadzawo and Dikwena’s Mogakolodi ‘Tsotso’ Ngele made sure that nothing could separate the two teams in regular time. Selolwane captained the local side, a club that he played for during the early stages of his career. 

The game started with both teams passing the ball around looking for an early breakthrough. GU was the first to break the ice when Nyamadzawo scored a simple tap in from Selolwane’s cross on the left side. Moyagoleele gained confidence after scoring the opener and they were threatening to increase the lead.

The pace of the game changed as the premier soccer league’s double champions were looking to overcome the early slip up. GU on the other side was comfortable on the ball and they did not lose possession easily. 

Their ball distribution was top notch and Platinum Stars were not showing any fighting spirit. Approaching half time, Dikwena started launching a series of attacks and won a set piece in the process. 

Ngele converted the goal from the spot in the dying minutes of the first half. Ngele’s goal forced the game to half time with a goal all stalemate. In the second half, both teams were looking for a goal that will take the lead and perhaps win them the game. 

The teams were disciplined at the back and none could afford to slip up. Countless substitutions from both sides were made in an effort to change the game, but the score line remained the same.

The man of the moment, Selolwane was then substituted for Thabiso Khunwane with 15 minutes remaining. Gaopatwe Seosenyeng and Kaelo Kgaswane missed GU’s first penalties while Solomon Mathe was the only one who missed in Platinum Stars’ side. 

The fate of the game was then put on Ngele to decide the outcome in the last penalty. Tsotso put the ball at the back of the net to ensure that his team returns to South Africa with a win.

The game, which was also a pre-season preparation match for both teams, attracted Batswana who were there to support the legend. Local musicians Euri, Mosako, Dr Vom, Wizards were there to perform and help support Selolwane whose name will forever be engraved in Batswana’s hearts.

After the match, Selolwane’s fans, mostly school children were elated to take photos with the football star who made his mark playing for the Zebras. He also made history by becoming the first Motswana to score a goal at the AFCON finals in 2012. 

To top it all, he was given a Presidential Order of Meritorious Service Award in 2011 in recognition of his sterling contribution to Botswana football.

During a post-match interview, Selolwane said he was grateful for the love and support Batswana had given him throughout his playing career. “Batswana made me and I will forever be your son,” he said. ENDS