Black Leopards coach Joel Masutha.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Two Limpopo giants, Baroka FC and Black Leopards, find themselves in unfamiliar territory this season — battling at the bottom of the Motsepe Foundation Championship (National First Division) log.
Black Leopards currently sit 15th, while Baroka FC occupy the very bottom spot. For Leopards, their troubles began early in the season after FIFA imposed a temporary transfer ban due to an unpaid claim by a former All Stars FC player — the club from which Leopards had bought their NFD status.
The ban left the Thohoyandou-based side with a depleted squad, forcing them to start the campaign on the back foot. As a result, they dropped crucial points in matches they might have otherwise won, especially after a strong showing last season. The ban was finally lifted in October, giving them a chance to rebuild and recover as the season progresses.
Leopards drew their most recent match 1–1 against Midlands Wanderers, who are 14th on the log, at home last weekend. They will now travel to face The Bees, currently 9th, away from home this Sunday — a tough test as they look to climb out of the relegation zone.
For Baroka, however, the situation is different — and largely self-inflicted. The club handed coach Dan “Dance” Malesela a rare full pre-season in charge, but results failed to follow. In eight matches, he managed just one draw and suffered seven defeats, prompting the management to part ways with him.
Baroka have since reappointed Matsemela Thoka, who began his latest stint with a 3–0 loss away to Upington City last weekend. The Ga-Mphahlele-based outfit has collected only four points so far, while Leopards have six points from one win and three draws.
Baroka will be hoping to turn their fortunes around when they host Cape Town Spurs (13th on the log with two wins and three draws from eight games) at Mafori Mphahlele Stadium in Lebowakgomo on Sunday at 15h30.
With both Limpopo sides desperate for points, the coming weeks could prove crucial in determining whether they can climb out of the relegation zone or remain trapped in a season of struggle.
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