16 Aug 2025

Calendar Stars face a tough assignment in their maiden FNB Premiership match as they welcome reigning champions Gaborone United (GU) to the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium at 8pm this evening.

The newly promoted side from Coloured location in Francistown will be overwhelming underdogs against the star studded GU which boasts experienced names such as last season's joint top scorer Thatayaone Kgamanyane, Mpho Kgaswane, Mothusi Johnson and Alford Velaphi amongst others. 

However, Stars head coach Joseph Mokgacha has explained that his team has prepared thoroughly and will compete.

“It’s going to be tough; they are one of the big boys of Botswana football. Our players understand the challenge ahead. We have prepared well mentally, physically, psychologically and in other aspects,” he said.

Mokgacha added that the club was working on signing new players to strengthen their squad. However, he praised the current group’s hunger and excitement to perform.

“Although it will not be an easy encounter, we are trying by all means to avoid defeat,” he said.

The two teams last met in the Orange FA Cup three years ago with GU running out 5-1 winners.

In another FNB Premiership encounter, newly formed Black Lions will take on Sua Flamingoes at Royal Aria Stadium in Tlokweng at 3:30pm. Lions owned by former Township Rollers director Tendani Sebata, have bought the Premier League status of VTM.

Showing their clear intentions to make an immediate impact on the league, Dibata Dia Rora have  ropped in South African coach Owen Da Gama and signed a number of experienced players such as defender Mpho Rudolf Kgaswane and midfielder Gape Gagoangwe from Extension Gunners, defender Doctor David from Jwaneng Galaxy, Dumisane Kubane from Mochudi Centre Chiefs and goalkeeper Joseph Gojamang from VTM.

Meanwhile, Mochudi Centre Chiefs were held to a goalless draw by BDF XI in the opening encounter of the 2025/26 FNB Premiership season at the National Stadium last night.

Other Saturday fixtures

Nico United v Extension Gunners (Sam Sono Stadium, Selebi Phikwe) - 3:30 pm

Jwaneng Galaxy v Morupule Wanderers (Galaxy Stadium,  Jwaneng) - 6 pm

 Township Rollers v Matebele (National Stadium, Gaborone)- 7 pm

ENDS