Siwelele FC locked in termination talks with Botswana international

Betway Premiership outfit Siwelele FC are locked in talks with Botswana international Goitseone Phoko over a mutual contract termination, Foot Africa has established.

The 31-year-old shot-stopper joined the Bloemfontein-based outfit on a free transfer at the beginning of the season, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal following the expiry of his contract at Jwaneng Galaxy.

He caught the eye at the 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, coming up clutch with crucial saves, although his exploits were not enough to save the Zebras from a group stage exit.

With vast experience accumulated in the FNB Botswana Premiership, including in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, Phoko presented a perfect market opportunity for Siwelele FC.

However, his switch to the lucrative Betway Premiership looks set to be short-lived, having made three appearances in the league back in August, and conceding five goals in the process.

Sources have confirmed that discussions over a mutual separation are intensifying, with both parties said to be optimistic about reaching total agreement on exit terms.

Phoko, who was brought in as a first-choice goalkeeper, fell down the pecking order following the arrival of promising goalie Wandile Mthombeni from Real Natives FC and Jody February on a season-long loan from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Notably, Siwelele FC have fielded four different goalkeepers in the ongoing 2026/27 campaign, with Samukelo Xulu also getting the nod to start in goal against Chippa United and Kaizer Chiefs.

Whether Phoko will remain in the South African topflight division after finding common ground with Siwelele FC remains to be seen, as clubs in his native country are already monitoring his situation.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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