In the heart of Bizana, a footballing tale is unfolding, led by the seasoned guidance of former footballer Sibusiso Mapompo. From his days donning the colors of Jomo Cosmos, Mtata Bucks, Mapompo now finds himself at the helm of FC Ravens in the ABC Motsepe League in the Eastern Cape.
As FC Ravens continue their fight for league glory, they face an additional challenge: a showdown with fellow Eastern Cape giants, Chippa United, in the last 16 of the Nedbank Cup. In anticipation of this clash, Box2BoxDiski had the privilege of conversing with Mapompo, gaining insights into the upcoming battle and the significance it holds for his team.
“Thank you, my brother,” Mapompo begins, expressing his excitement about the prospect of facing a top-flight side in a local derby. “It’s an awesome feeling, an occasion we want to enjoy and take the experience.”
Reflecting on the journey that brought FC Ravens to this pivotal moment, Mapompo recounts the arduous path they’ve traversed. “It’s been a long, hard journey that started last year before the league even started,” he shares. “We had to play and beat top sides like Sinenkani, FC Siyanda, Matta Milan, and Peacemaker, who are younger brothers of Chippa United, to get here.”
Central to FC Ravens’ success has been their unity and collective determination, as Mapompo emphasizes. “It has been our togetherness from Management, Technical team down to the players,” he affirms. “We’ve been driven by one goal, which is to give our maximum efforts every day to make this season a success.”
When asked about the strategy against formidable opponents like Chippa United, Mapompo’s response is rooted in authenticity. “The best strategy and tactic will be us being ourselves and staying true to our identity,” he asserts.
However, he acknowledges the importance of mental preparedness in facing such challenges. “The best preparation against such an opponent is instilling confidence and playing with no fear of occasion,” Mapompo states. “Because if we struggle to deal with the atmosphere, we’ll be in trouble.”
Drawing from his own experiences as a player and now as a coach, Mapompo offers valuable advice to aspiring footballers. “The first advice always is to work hard and to never think you know everything,” he advises. “Be willing to listen, learn, and do extras. And the best advice is to know and accept that in one coach you can be a bad player and the next coach the best player.”
As FC Ravens gear up to face Chippa United, they carry with them the spirit of determination, unity, and a steadfast commitment to their identity. With Mapompo’s guidance, they are poised to seize the moment and etch their names in footballing history.
In their journey through challenges and triumphs, FC Ravens exemplify the resilience and passion that define the beautiful game. And as they step onto the field, they do so not just as a team, but as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.
