Africa-Press – Botswana. As the new season approaches, TAFIC, affectionately known as the Giants of the North, is gearing up for a fresh start and thrilling campaign under the guidance of Mandla Mpofu.
The seasoned coach joins the team after a stint at Nico United, succeeding Elias Chinyemba who moved to Orapa United. Pivotal question remains, can Mpofu lead TAFIC to its first-ever title in the elite league?
Founded in 1959, Tati African Football Independent Club (TAFIC) has yet to claim a league championship, having experienced a rollercoaster of performances over the decades, including a near-miss in 1992 when they finished second. Last season, it finished the campaign in a respectable second place, amassing 60 points, but fell shy of the title, behind Gaborone United.
At a gala dinner recently honouring the squad, chairperson Tumelo Toteng expressed strong aspirations for the upcoming season, promising that TAFIC would aim for the top spot. However, the team is navigating a setback as key players departed for rival clubs like Orapa United and Gaborone United. Prominent departures include 2024/25 goalkeeper of the season Tshepo Mooketsi, defenders Kemoneetswe Mmangwedi and Shanganani Ngada, and midfielders Theo Shadikong and Amogelang Reetsang.
Despite losing such talent, Toteng assured fans that TAFIC was actively seeking key recruits to fill such gaps, with confirmed signing expected to join the ranks soon. Training sessions commenced three weeks ago, building momentum in preparation for the season, which kicks off on August 25, with the transfer window open until the end of September.
The new coach, Mpofu, despite the pressure to elevate the team amidst the changes, is optimistic about turning TAFIC’s fortunes around. He believed that with the right blend of existing and incoming players, TAFIC would make history by clinching the premier league title, something no team from the north has achieved since ECCO City Greens’ triumph in 2007.
In his third week of pre-season training, Mpofu noted determination and energy of the squad. He expressed confidence that his history of coaching successful teams would translate into results for TAFIC, even with the recent loss of key players. Mpofu commended the team for its competitive spirit throughout the years.
Reflecting on previous coaching successes, Mpofu has seen first-hand the potential for extraordinary achievements in football. He viewed TAFIC as a brand with greatness in its DNA and is excited to contribute to its legacy, assuring supporters that while progress may take time, he was committed to re-building. Mpofu emphasised the crucial role supporters play in any team’s success, urging fans, management, and the Francistown community to rally behind TAFIC and embark on the journey together.
The coach’s football journey began in Zimbabwe, and his path has led him from local teams to significant successes with various clubs in Botswana, including his recent work at Sua Flamingoes and Masitaoka. Now with TAFIC, he is focused on reviving the team’s fortunes and nurturing upcoming talent, determined to make magic happen on the pitch.
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