Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana Football Association (BFA) president has hailed the Orange FA Cup as a shining beacon of Botswana’s football.
Speaking at the Orange FA Cup Season 6 draw yesterday, Tariq Babitseng said the competition represented more than just a football competition, having stayed true to its purpose, since inception in the 2017/18 season and turned Botswana youth into diamonds, empowering them to dream big, and cultivating the stars of tomorrow.
Babitseng said the tournament also embodied shared commitment between BFA and Orange Botswana to uplift communities, nurture talent and unite the nation.
He added that the Orange FA Cup also reflected the core values of Orange Botswana and the leadership vision outlined in his manifesto.
“Empowerment and opportunity for all like Orange Botswana, which is committed to fostering inclusivity, the FA Cup reaches every corner of the nation, ensuring that no community or player is left behind,” he said.
That alone, he said resonated with his vision for grassroots development, a cornerstone of their manifesto, where every young player was given a platform to excel, which he believed was a catalyst for excellence and national pride.
Furthermore, he said through its extensive reach and competitive nature, the Orange FA Cup was instrumental in preparing their teams for CAF tournaments, which directly contributed to the recent success of the Zebras in qualifying for AFCON 2025.
“As we draw for the sixth and final edition of the current Orange FA Cup contract, let us reflect on the profound impact this partnership has had on Botswana football. It perfectly aligns with the ideals of empowerment, inclusivity, and excellence shared by Orange Botswana and the BFA,” he said.
For her part, Orange Botswana CEO, Nene Maiga said over the years the tournament had solidified its position as a cornerstone of Botswana football calendar.
Maiga said the tournament had grown in leaps and bound and as a celebration of talent and avenue, opportunity and unifying platform for communities across the nation.
She said this season’s edition would be bigger, different and more exciting, adding from February to July, they would have 48 teams representing both the premier league and lower division compete across the country for their share of the cash prize.
“This expansion reflects our commitment to taking Botswana football to new heights, ensuring that every community, every player, and every fan experiences the unparalleled excitement of the Orange FA Cup,” she said.
She added that the Orange FA Cup had consistently showcased its transformative power given that every year, it identified and elevated grassroots talent, with many players progressing to league teams and even representing Botswana on international platforms.
She also indicated that the tournament came at a pivotal moment as Botswana prepared for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next year.
“The Orange FA Cup is unique in its ability to bring football to every corner of Botswana. Matches will be hosted in towns, villages, and remote communities, ensuring that the energy and passion of football are felt across the nation,” she said.
Meanwhile, the tournament is expected to start in February next year and round one draw for the South Region would pit Boikago against Blue Stars, Pula Roofing will play Notwane, Sand Diamonds versus Jwaneng Young Fighters while Prisons will travel to Tsetseng to play against Tsetseng.
Tlokweng United will face Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Taung Young Strikers will play UB Hawks, Majweng versu City Polars, while Flamengo Santos will lock horns with King Rodgers.
In the Northern Region, Sankayo Bush Bucks will take on Calendar Stars, MR Highlanders will battle it out with Gumare Young Stars, Chadibe will play against Miscelleneous, FC Palapye will face Mbalakalungu, Tsabotlhe will play Tshikenyega Tigers while Motlakase Power Dynamos will battle it out with Tonota. The Southern Region will also feature Santa Green taking the field against Mmadinare Giants Aces, while Kazungula will take on Real Brothers.
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