Dembe Football Academy secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Bovard SC in a league encounter held at Swaneville Stadium on 1 May 2025, with kick-off at 3:00pm. The match showcased the Academy's tactical prowess and attacking flair, as they dominated the game from start to finish.
Dembe Football Academy lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Nash Shai occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Messi Shuenyane on the right, Siyabulela Dlamini and Van Dijk Dakada as central defenders, and Ma1000 Tshishivhiri on the left. The midfield duo of Jivo Mosito and Maestro Mpate operated centrally, providing both defensive cover and creative support to the attacking midfielder, Hlokoloza Diole. Up front, Section50 Botshe and Deco Langa flanked striker Advice Skhaleni saka Mtombela, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing chances.
The substitutes for Dembe included Dondo Isagila Se Papa, Dolly Thoto, Mahrez Ngidi, Pogba Maila, and Neo Meso, ready to make an impact as the match progressed.
The opening goal came early in the fifth minute when Ma1000 Tshishivhiri struck with his left foot, sending the ball past the Bovard goalkeeper and igniting celebrations among the Dembe supporters. This early breakthrough set the tone for the remainder of the first half, as Dembe continued to press and create opportunities.
As the match approached half-time, Dembe maintained their composure, effectively stifling any attempts from Bovard SC to find an equaliser. The first half concluded with Dembe holding a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
The second half commenced with renewed energy, and just four minutes in, Dembe doubled their advantage. Advice Skhaleni saka Mtombela tapped in from close range following a precise short pass from Section50 Botshe, showcasing the Academy's attacking synergy. This goal, coming in the 49th minute, further solidified Dembe's control over the match.
In the 60th minute, tactical changes were made as Dondo Isagila Se Papa replaced Siyabulela Dlamini, while Dolly Thoto came on for Deco Langa. These substitutions aimed to maintain the momentum and freshen up the midfield and attacking options.
As the match progressed, Mahrez Ngidi entered the fray in the 71st minute, taking the place of Section50 Botshe, followed shortly by Pogba Maila and Neo Meso, who replaced Advice Skhaleni saka Mtombela and Ma1000 Tshishivhiri respectively in the 79th minute. These changes allowed Dembe to maintain their intensity and control over the game.
However, the closing stages of the match saw some disciplinary action, with Neo Meso receiving a yellow card in the 80th minute for an undisclosed infraction. Hlokoloza Diole followed suit three minutes later, also receiving a yellow card as tensions began to rise.
Despite these cautions, Dembe Football Academy held firm, successfully managing the game to secure a 2-0 victory against Bovard SC. The result not only reflects their strong performance but also highlights their potential as a formidable force in the league this season.
