Stars host BDF XI in FA Cup

Calendar Stars will host BDF XI in the last 32 of the Orange FA Cup Season 7 in Francistown at the Francistown City Council Stadium on Sunday. Calendar Stars proceeded to the last 32 after beating Dessert Buffaloes by 5-4 in penalty shoot-out. The game ended in a two-all draw, which led to penalties shoot-out.

In an interview, Calendar Stars coach, Joseph Mokgacha said their game with BDF XI would be a tough encounter as they had played with BDF XI twice in the league matches and managed to draw all the games. He said they did not have enough time to prepare well for the game as they had a league match on Wednesday, which left then with only two days to prepare for the Cup game. However, Mokgacha said their Orange Cup game meant a lot.

“On the positive side, it means when we progress forward, our players will have more game time, which will boost their morale. On the negative side, it means we will have to juggle between many games, which means we will be fatigued,” he said, adding that the team is also at a critical moment where it is facing relegation. Coach Mokgacha encouraged Calendar Stars supporters to come and support the team in this thrilling competition adding that playing on the home advantage could be a morale booster for good results.

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BDF XI coach, Mogomotsi Mpote said they were ready to play Calendar Stars and they had prepared well for the encounter, with a morale boost after winning against Police XI in a league match. He said his squad was fit without injuries, adding that Tapiwa Namanjiva, who was on injury, was now back and started training and looks well to play. Coach Mpote said cup games were important in giving ample game time also noting that the opportunity for the winner to participate in the CAF competition offered exposure to players, which could add value to the national team. “We take this cup seriously as it increases our competitiveness”.

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