10 Aug 2026

Tonota FC were crowned champions of the first edition of the Tati River Cup after defeating Zambia’s Nkana FC 2-1 in the final played at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium on Saturday in Francistown.

The home side came from behind to lift the trophy in front of a fair crowd. Both teams started the match with intent and attacked from the opening whistle. Nkana FC, one of Zambia’s most successful clubs, looked composed in the early minutes and controlled possession. Tonota FC, however, matched their opponents for work rate and refused to sit back.

Nkana FC broke the deadlock in the 29^th minute. Gift Msiska found space in the box and finished calmly to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. The goal lifted Nkana FC and they pressed for a second, forcing Tonota FC to defend in numbers.

Despite going behind, Tonota FC stayed patient. They grew into the game and began to create chances from the wings and from long range. Their persistence was rewarded in the fourth minute of added time at the end of the first half.  Arnold Mampori picked up the ball outside the box and struck a clean shot that beat the Nkana FC goalkeeper to level the score at 1-1. The timing of the goal gave the home supporters a lift going into halftime.

During the second round,  Tonota FC came out a sharper side. They pressed higher, showing more determination.

From a well-taken set piece, defender Emmanuel Timu rose highest and powered a free header into the net to put Tonota FC 2-1 ahead. The stadium erupted as the local team took the lead for the first time.

Nkana FC responded by pushing forward in search of an equaliser. They created a few chances, but Tonota FC’s defence held firm. The goalkeeper also made key saves to keep the visitors at bay as the game entered the final 15 minutes. Tonota FC managed the closing stages well, keeping possession and defending as a unit to see out the win. The game ended in 2-1 in favour of Tonota FC.

In a post-match interview, Tonota FC coach Thaloba Nthaba said the result was a positive sign ahead of the new season.  

“It is encouraging progress for us. We are still building the team during pre-season. To beat a team like Nkana FC shows character. Winning this tournament will be a morale booster for the players,” said Nthaba.

Nkana FC coach, Elijah Tana, said his side was disappointed but took positives from the tournament.   “It was not our day,” Tana said. “We started well but we relaxed in the second half and we were punished. We are grateful for the hospitality we received in Botswana. It was good competition and good preparation for us,” he said. The Tati River Cup was held for the first time with the aim of reviving football in the northern region and building stronger relationships with teams from neighbouring countries. Organisers said the tournament provided local players with valuable exposure and brought fans back to the stadium in large numbers.

The tournament was graced by former vice president, Slumber Tsogwane, Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi, Francistown City mayor, Gaone Majere and Kgosi Bokamoso Radipitse of Tonota among other dignitaries. ENDS