05 Mar 2019

Blood, sweat and tears are expected when Gaborone United and Jwaneng Galaxy fight for supremacy in the Mascom Top 8 final on Saturday at the Francistown Stadium.

Galaxy reached the finals after beating BDF X1 3-1 on aggregate while Gaborone United surprised Township Rollers by kicking them out of the competition via a 10-9 penalty shoot out.

Both teams know the feel of lifting the trophy with Gaborone United having won it in 2013 and 2015 while Jwaneng Galaxy won it in 2017.

Speaking at a press briefing, Gaborone United coach Phillimon Makwengwe said his mission was to bring glory back to  supporters.

He said they were going to field a full strength squad, adding that they were also happy with the team’s performance.

“We respect our opponents, and over and above respecting them, we like them, and when you like your enemy, it is easy for you to defeat your enemy,” he said.

Makwengwe said spectators should expect scintillating football from the two teams.

Jwaneng Galaxy coach, Miguel Da Costa said it was his first final in Botswana, and that he was cognizant that he would be playing Gaborone United. However, he said in a final there was no favourite.

He said he had a conversation with his players, and that there was no need to panic and change what they had been doing throughout.

“I told them that they must just enjoy the game and the moment because reaching the final comes with a lot of pressure. I personally want them to express themselves and enjoy the football,” he said.
 

Da Costa said they had done their homework at that it would be a good game of football.

Jwaneng Galaxy’s Karabo Phiri said the game was going to be emotional for him because he would be facing his former employer. He, however, said he would approach the game with a winning mentality

Gaborone United’s Obonwe Maome said despite being amongst the top goal scorers, he was going to play without any pressure.

GU players, he said, needed the cup badly, and that Galaxy should expect a fierce battle in Francistown, adding that all the players were looking forward to the game. Ends