Motaung takes over at PSL side

Baroka FC has ended its coaching search, officially naming former University of Pretoria (AmaTuks) boss Tlisane Motaung as their new head coach for the rest of the 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship season.

Motaung, who had been without a club since his departure from AmaTuks last season, steps straight into the dugout, bringing former assistant Matsemela Thoka along with him. The club confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, with the duo pictured at the Baroka Village in Lebowakgomo ahead of their first training session.

The Baroka Coaching Carousel

The Limpopo side had been in desperate need of a change after suspending well-travelled coach Dan Malesela due to a dismal run of results that saw them go five matches without a win. This poor form culminated in a recent 2-0 defeat to Motaung’s former side, AmaTuks—a game the new coach attended from the stands.

Baroka’s search was a frantic one. The club had been linked to several candidates, including former Kruger United coach Abram Mangoya. Interestingly, Humphrey Mlwane (The Bees’ current head coach) was also reportedly a done deal, only for the club to execute a late U-turn, paving the way for Motaung’s arrival.

Motaung’s Resume and First Task At PSL Side

Motaung comes with a solid record of elevating PSL outfit AmaTuks, having led the side to the tough PSL Promotional/Relegation Playoffs on two separate occasions (2021/22 and 2023/24). His tenure also included two runs to the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals.

The new coach must hit the ground running immediately. His first two fixtures are challenging away trips: a clash against Hungry Lions on Saturday, October 25, followed swiftly by a Tuesday, October 28 encounter with Upington City. The primary objective will be to quickly reverse the club’s fortunes and lift them out of their current slump.