LIMPOPO – In their second Motsepe Foundation Championship League match at Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday, Black Leopards delivered a convincing 2-0 victory over Leruma FC.
The result, however, did not fully reflect the disparity between the two teams, as Leopards dominated from the start.
Leruma FC, representing the Free State, were fortunate not to be overwhelmed in the first half, as they struggled across all areas of play.
Black Leopards missed two clear opportunities in the opening 10 minutes.
Thabana Mabena squandered a close-range chance in the fourth minute, failing to convert a precise pass from Donald Makgethlwa.
Shortly after, Bethuel Muzeu’s long-range attempt, taken under pressure, was off target, much to the frustration of the fans.
Despite their dominance, the teams went into halftime with a 0-0 scoreline.
The breakthrough came in the 68th minute when Leopards’ defender Tsepo Matsimbi scored with a powerful header that left Leruma’s goalkeeper, Senzo Sithole, helpless.
Following this, Leruma FC lost their rhythm, allowing Leopards to exploit their weakened defense. Sedzani Mudau secured the win with a second goal shortly after.
Both teams made substitutions in the second half, but the changes had little impact for the visitors, who found themselves under constant pressure.
Black Leopards’ Kamogelo Ngwane and Ndivhuwo Ravhuhali missed further chances in the closing minutes, but the result remained in their favour.
Black Leopards’ solid performance ensured a well-deserved victory, leaving them with a strong position in the championship league.
