When Tafic FC and Orapa United were drawn against each in the semi-finals of the Orange FA Cup, fans of both clubs licked their lips in anticipation.
Thousands were expected to grace the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium for the northern showdown, with supporters planning a big weekend in Ghetto.
Their smiles were, however, wiped off their faces when the venue was announced as the National Stadium – 500km away in Gaborone!
Voice Sport took to the street to find out what supporters of both teams felt about the venue choice; for once, football fans were united!
OBUSITSE PITLAGANO – Serowe/Palapye TAFIC Supporters Branch Chairperson
We are not happy at all.
This was a fixture of two teams from the north with only 235km between them.
The home ground advantage has been taken away, and so is our pride.
Economically, our SME’s will be the hardest hit.
So much is happening in Gaborone, and it was time for the mall business man in Francistown to earn a living.
AMELTON GAEFELE – Orapa United PRO
As Orapa United we accept the scheduling of the game to Gaborone, because we don’t make decisions.
There is a Local Organizing Committee (LOC) which decides that and we have to honor.
Yes the game being scheduled miles away from home is going to cost us somehow, because our supporters are in Orapa and Francistown and most of them won’t be able to travel to Gaborone for the game.
I had wished the LOC could’ve engaged us before taking the decision to take our game to Gaborone.
RICHARD JAMES – TAFIC Supporter
This is so disappointing.
We’ve been given the shortest end of the stick.
Our first semi final after 22 years deserves to be played in Francistown.
I don’t know what the LOC was trying to do.
I hope our supporters in the South will go to the national stadium to give the boys morale support.
Sadly I won’t make the trip and will watch on Botswana Television.
JOHN MAKWATI – TAFIC supporter
I’m not happy with the decision at all.
Common sense dictates that the two teams in the north should have played either in Francistown or Orapa.
I don’t think there’s any valid reason to change the venue.
I’d understand if this was the final, but its only the semis. I wish my club well, progressing to the final will be the biggest highlight of the season.
GOITSEMANG BATHAMI – Vendor
They have taken food out of our mouths.
Usually we make a lot of money during these cup games because they attract a lot of supporters.
We had already prepared for the match, because the draw was announced live.
We just have to wait for another big event or football match to make a little money, our chance is gone.
JOYCE DZAKATIRA-Orapa United supporter
Gabs is not the right place for this match.
We all expected these teams to play in Francistown and this venue change has created a lot of challenges for supporters.
I however believe in my team. I know my team especially when it comes cup games. I know this team and will never doubt the. We are winning 3-1.