The president of Black Leopards FC, Mr David Thidiela, received praise for acquiring the Motsepe Foundation Championship franchise during a gathering held at the Vhufuli branch of the United African Apostolic Church last Sunday.
Speakers not only hailed Black Leopards Football Club as a prominent brand but also underscored the club's positive impact on the lives of many by providing employment opportunities over the years.
Black Leopards were relegated to the lower division at the conclusion of the last season, finishing at the bottom of the league standings. Mr Thidiela purchased the franchise from Cape Town All Stars FC.
The club's chairman, Mr Tshifhiwa Thidiela, mentioned that dedicating the team to God was their customary practice before the start of each league season. The opening league matches for the new season are scheduled for this weekend. During the ceremony, a full squad comprising 29 players was introduced to the church elders.
Only 10 of the squad's players were part of last season's team. The 29 players who will proudly wear the Lidoda duvha colours are: Mashudu Makhavhu, Brighton Montare, and Moses Mokhae (goalkeepers), Amukelani Chauke, Mokone Mereko, Sanele Zulu, Lucious Ndou, and Tshepo Matsimbi (defenders), Rafik Namwera, Thabanga Mabena, Makoro Moloko, Michael Moshupya, Bonginkosi Makhanya, Vincent Mashego, Tlotiso Phatsisi, Thato Sesoal, Moholola Thabisha, and Vusi Mkhwanazi (midfielders), Ofentse Raphadu, Freddy Mathole, Nkosi Mavundla, Tshepang Maphosa, Thabo Nkwana, Motsuku Thomani, Leope Lephalala, Bethuel Muzeu, Mulisa Ramusia, Discovery Vhugala, and Motsuku Toporo (strikers).
Black Leopards will start the new season with an away match. They will visit Pretoria Callies at the TUT Stadium in Pretoria on Friday afternoon, with the game set to kick off at 15:00. The match will be broadcast live on television.