By Bhora Afrika
Botswana Premier League [BPL] outfit Masitaoka FC Wednesday announced the sacking of Mandla ‘Lulu’ Mpofu 11 months after the nomadic former Highlanders coach joined the side.
Lulu joined Masitaoka in August 2022 when he was unattached, few months after he got axed by Highlanders.
He signed a one-year-deal with the BPL side with an option to extend his term at the club, however, Masitaoka have decided not to renew his contract.
The Gaborone based side announced in a statement issued Wednesday.
“Masitaoka Football Club announces that the club will part ways with Head Coach Mandla Mpofu at the end of June 2023 when his contract expires.
“Mpofu was appointed Masitaoka FC coach in August 2022 and during his time with the club, he was in charge of 34 official matches [16W, 4D, 14L] in all competitions,” the statement reads.
“He has led us to a seventh-place finish in the Botswana Premier League 2022/23 campaign with 43 points, as well as taking us to the Orange FA Cup Season 4 Semi Finals.
“We have the highest degree of respect for Mandla as a coach and as a person, he has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity.
“The club would like to thank Coach Mpofu for all his efforts and contribution at Masitaoka FC. We wish him well for the future. There will be no further comment until a new Head Coach appointment is made.”
The sacking comes one week after the former Warriors assistant coach was listed for the 2023 Orange Cup Coach of the Tournament nominees.