By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – African Warriors FC, affectionately known as Mayihlome, have brought immense pride to the Eastern Free State by clinching the 2024/25 Free State ABC Motsepe League title.
Their thrilling 2–1 victory over Mangaung City FC on Sunday, April 27 2025, at Tokkie Park (CUT Stadium) in Bloemfontein, secured them a coveted spot in the national playoffs, along with a R500,000 support package from the provincial government.
Steve Tshabalala, Head of the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (DSACR), lauded the team and underscored the significance of the moment not only for the club but for regional sporting development.
“This funding is our way of ensuring that African Warriors FC go into the national playoffs fully equipped. We believe in them, and we are proud that a team from the Eastern Free State will fly the provincial flag high,” Tshabalala said.
The R500,000 prize will assist the club with vital preparations for the national playoffs in June, covering expenses such as travel, accommodation, training camps, and equipment.
In an exclusive interview with The Guard, Mokete Mofokeng, Chairperson of Provincial Sports and Wellness at the Free State Department of Health (FSDOH) and Exco Member of the Free State Inter-departmental Sports Committee, expressed deep admiration for the team’s resilience and success.
“First and foremost, I want to congratulate the Chairperson Dr Bakekile Mzangwa, the board, sponsors, Coach Morapedi and his technical team, the players – and most importantly, the loyal Mayihlome supporters – for this incredible achievement. They overcame all odds,” Mofokeng said.
“This win is for everyone in QwaQwa and the Eastern Free State. They made us all proud. I’m sure the late Mr Jabu Khumalo, former chairperson, is smiling from the heavens today.”
He also highlighted the broader impact of the club’s success.
“This is an opportunity for young boys in the region to focus on their talent and stay off the streets – a powerful antidote to crime and hopelessness.”
African Warriors FC receiving a cheque of R500 000.
As a long-time supporter, Mofokeng reflected fondly on the team’s journey:
“I’ve followed this team since its heydays. At the end of the 2023/24 season, I predicted they’d win the league – and they’ve done exactly that!”Looking ahead, his hopes remain high.
“If they maintain the same belief and spirit, there’s no reason why they can’t win the national playoffs and secure promotion to the National First Division in the 2025/26 season.”
With the national playoffs on the horizon, the Eastern Free State rallies behind Mayihlome – proud, united, and ready to cheer them on every step of the way.
