Ramatlaohle team manager Tshiila Mulaudzi
By: Refilwe Sebola
Two of Limpopo’s top women’s football sides, Simthumule Kutama FC of Venda and Ramatlaohle FC, are set to clash this Sunday at Seshego Stadium in a decisive battle for a place in the National Playoffs.
The encounter is a repeat of last season’s provincial playoff meeting, where Ramatlaohle FC cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Simthumule at the Oscar Mpetha Stadium at the University of Limpopo. That win secured Ramatlaohle’s ticket to the national playoffs in Cape Town, although they narrowly missed out on promotion to the Hollywoodbets Super League.
Both sides return to the provincial playoffs this season as champions of their respective leagues. Simthumule Kutama FC topped Stream B, which features teams from the Mopani and Venda regions, while Ramatlaohle FC emerged winners of Stream A, made up of sides from Waterberg, Sekhukhune, and Capricorn districts.
With their experience on the national stage and a dominant record against Simthumule, Ramatlaohle FC enter the tie as favorites to once again represent Limpopo at the national level. However, Simthumule are determined to avenge last season’s defeat and make history by booking their first-ever spot in the national playoffs.
Ramatlaohle team manager Tshiila Mulaudzi says they are not taking their opponents lightly. “We are expecting a tough match because Simthumule will not want to lose twice to the same team,” said Mulaudzi. “We respect them, but we are confident in our preparation. Should we win on Sunday, we will do our best to improve our performance in the national playoffs and go beyond last season’s results.”
Fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with skill, determination, and pride as Limpopo’s best women’s teams battle for provincial supremacy.