FORM AND PERFORMANCE
Lioli fc comes into this week 13 Vodacom Premier League match with a strong performance record. Currently second on the log with 26 points, they have achieved 8 wins, 2draws and 2losses with a goal difference of +12.Thier defence is the best in the league, conceding only 6 goals in 12 matches. In their last three games, they defeated Lijabatho FC 3-0, lost narrowly 1-0 to log leaders Matlama Fc and they won 1-0 over LCS FC.
Mzamane Fc on the other hand, is struggling in their debut Premier Leaguer Season. They sit second-to-last on the log (15th) with just 3 points from 1 win, no draws and 11 losses, and a goal difference of -34. Their recent form included a 1-0 loss to Machokha Fc, a 1-0 win over Ace Maseru Fc and a 3-0 loss to Matlama Fc. With just 6 goals scored and 40 conceded, they face an uphill battle in this game.
HEAD TO HEAD RECORDS
This is the first ever meeting between these two teams. Mzamane Fc, the 2023/2024 A Division North Stream champions are up against Lioli Fc, the reigning 2023/2024Vodacom Premier League Champions.
STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
LIOLI FC
STRENGTHS: Their defence is very solid as they have conceded very few goals (6) in the league. Their attacking efficiency and disciplined organisation make them tough to beat. Playing as the hosts at Bambatha further boosts their confidence and becomes an advantage.
WEAKNESSES: Lioli Fc sometimes struggles against small team whereby the can fail to score many goals or fail to score at all, as evidenced by their 0-0 draw against Machokha Fc at Bambatha.
MZAMANE FC
STRENGTHS: Despite their poor performance Mzamane sometimes shows the fighting spirit especially in their 1-0 win over Ace Maseru and their 2-1 loss against Liphakoe Fc.
WEAKNESSES: Their defence is very shaky as they have conceded 40 goals after 12 games. Their attack is also underwhelming, with only 6 goals scored making it difficult to challenge other teams especially the bigger ones.
HOME GROUND ADVANTAGE
As the hosts, Lioli Fc will enjoy the support of their fans at Bambatha, a ground where they have a good record. The familiar environment and crowd energy will provide an additional edge for Lioli FC who will look to capitalise on this advantage to secure maximum points as it is said that the home crowd is the 12th player.
PREDICTED OUTCOME
Lioli Fc ‘s superior form, defensive solidity and home ground advantage makes them overwhelming favourites for this match. Mzamane ‘s leaky defence and lack of power suggests they are unlikely to oppose a serious threat.
SCORE PREDICTION:
Lioli FC 3-0 Mzamane Fc