In a swift managerial shake-up, Baroka FC have named former University
of Pretoria coach Tlisani Motaung as their new head coach until the end of
the season. The move comes immediately after the club dismissed Dan “Dance”
Malesela following a dismal start to their National First Division campaign.
Motaung, who last guided AmaTuks to a 10th-place finish in the 2024/25
season, will be assisted by a familiar face in Matsemela Thoka. Thoka
returns to Baroka after a stint with Ngwaabe City Motors in the ABC Motsepe
League.
The decision to part ways with Malesela was precipitated by a run of poor
form that saw Baroka secure just one win, one draw, and five losses in their
first seven matches. Club owner Khurishi Mphahlele had previously indicated
that a disciplinary hearing would be convened to investigate the team’s poor
performance.
The dismissal clears the way for Malesela to finalize a widely reported move
to Chippa United. Meanwhile, the new coaching team faces an urgent task to
revive the club’s fortunes. Baroka currently sit second from the bottom on
the table with only four points, level with 16th-placed Midlands Wanderers.
Their first challenge under the new leadership will be an away fixture
against Northern Cape side Hungry Lions on Saturday.
