Mpheni Defenders are the Limpopo ABC Motsepe League Provincial playoffs Championship.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Experienced Mpheni Defenders surprised everyone by delivering an outstanding performance against favourites Tzaneen United, winning 1-0 in the ABC Motsepe League provincial playoffs at the Oscar Mpetha Stadium in the University of Limpopo.
Despite Tzaneen United being favoured to win due to their strong performance in the league, Mpheni’s experience proved to be the deciding factor. The Elim-based side, having previously won two consecutive Limpopo Provincial playoff games, displayed class and maturity on the field.
Employing a midblock tactic, they effectively closed vital areas on the field, making it difficult for Tzaneen United to create scoring opportunities. Tzaneen United, led by star player Lefa “Toy” Aphane, struggled to break through Mpheni’s defense and failed to convert their chances and set pieces into goals.
At halftime, the game was deadlocked at 0-0, with Tzaneen having the upper hand in terms of ball possession and scoring opportunities. In the second half, Tzaneen United changed their approach to a more direct style of play, but it was ineffective.
Mpheni seized the opportunity and scored a crucial goal, ultimately securing the win. Despite Tzaneen United’s efforts to find an equalizer, it was too little, too late. Mpheni’s coach and owner, Sydwell Phuravhathu, expressed delight at the victory and believed his team could have scored more goals in the second half. Mpheni will represent Limpopo in the national playoffs at Upington in the Northern Cape on June 17-23.