18 May 2025

TAFIC has moved into second position in the FNB Premiership standings after a 3-1 victory over Extension Gunners at the Francistown Council Stadium Saturday.

The win comes after Gaborone United clinched the league title with a 4-2 victory over Jwaneng Galaxy. Speaking after the match, TAFIC head coach Elias Chinyemba expressed satisfaction with his team’s second-half performance. 

“I am very happy with the results. We played exceptionally well in the second half,” Chinyemba said. 

He acknowledged that the first half was less impressive, noting, “We struggled to contain our opponents, who launched frequent attacks, although they couldn’t convert those chances into goals”.

With only one match remaining in the season, Chinyemba remains optimistic about maintaining their current league position, emphasising the importance of grabbing a win in their upcoming fixture.

Extension Gunners interim coach, Tshepo Motlhabankwe attributed the loss to injuries that plagued several key players. Despite aiming for a victory, he admitted that his team failed to make the most of their opportunities. 

“In the first half, we managed to hold back TAFIC and even broke through their defense, but our finishing was not accurate,” he explained.

The match began with both teams engaging aggressively, exchanging aerial balls and launching early attacks. Gunners appeared to have the upper hand initially, creating several clear chances, but were unable to find the net, while TAFIC goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep the score level. The opening half ended goalless at 0-0.

The second half saw a revitalised TAFIC side take control. In the 57th minute, Kazadi Kalombo scored a spectacular shot to give TAFIC a 1-0 lead, igniting the crowd and shifting the momentum in their favor. The match intensified, with standout performances from Jean Lwamba and Manda Nongo, both instrumental in TAFIC’s attacking rhythm. In the 87th minute, Extension Gunners equalised through George Simbayabaya, leveling the score at 1-1.

However, TAFIC responded swiftly. Just a minute later, Jean Lwamba restored the lead for the hosts, making it 2-1. The drama continued into stoppage time when Botsile Kebaikanye delivered the final blow, sealing the victory for TAFIC with a final score of 3-1. As the season draws to a close, TAFIC is poised for a strong finish, while Extension Gunners will be aiming to improve their league standing in their final match of the season. ENDS