Sekhukhune United FC, famously known as Babina Noko, has quickly risen from humble beginnings to become one of South Africa’s most ambitious football clubs. Noko (Porcupine) is a totem animal of the Bapedi from Ga-Sekhukhune in general. With strong financial backing, strategic leadership, and a clear roadmap, Sekhukhune went from the ABC Motsepe League to competing on the continental stage in just a few short years. Their story reflects vision, structure, and determination — a modern-day blueprint for success in South African football.
🟨 SECTION 2: Club Overview
Quick Facts About Sekhukhune United FC
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sekhukhune United Football Club |
| Nickname | Babina Noko (Those who swear by the Porcupine) |
| Founded | 2019 (as African All Stars), rebranded in 2020 |
| Founders | Jonas Malatji |
| Owners | Sekhukhune United Holdings |
| Location | Polokwane, but the team trains in Gauteng |
| Stadium | New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane |
| Club Colors | Red, White, and Black |
| League Participation | ABC Motsepe League → NFD → PSL |
| Major Trophies | None (Finalist in Nedbank Cup 2023) |
| CAF Participation | 2023/24 Confederation Cup |
🟨 SECTION 3: Origins and Foundation
The Birth of Babina Noko
Founded in 2019 as African All Stars, Sekhukhune United’s transformation began with ambition and a clear plan. In September 2020, they purchased the GladAfrica Championship (NFD) status from Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC. The club was officially launched on 5 November 2020, with the unveiling of a 3-year plan to reach and establish themselves in the DSTV Premiership — a goal they would achieve ahead of schedule.
🟨 SECTION 4: Rapid Ascent
From NFD to PSL in One Season
Highlights:
- 🏆 2020/21: Sekhukhune United won the GladAfrica Championship (NFD) in their first full season.
- 🚀 Earned promotion to the DSTV Premiership in 2021.
- 🏟️ Began hosting home games at New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane in partnership with the local municipality.
With a strong squad and efficient management, Sekhukhune dominated the second tier and secured top-flight football in record time. Their professionalism and ambition immediately set them apart from other new clubs.
🟨 SECTION 5: Establishing Themselves in the Premiership
Season-by-Season Performance:
| Season | League Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2021/22 | 11th | Solid debut season in the PSL |
| 2022/23 | 7th | Qualified for MTN8, reached Nedbank final |
| 2023/24 | 4th | Qualified for CAF Confederation Cup |
Sekhukhune United quickly silenced doubters by maintaining consistent performances and establishing themselves as a top-half PSL team. Their rise culminated in qualifying for continental competition and reaching their first major final in 2023.
🟨 SECTION 6: Cup Competitions and Continental Debut
Notable Achievements:
- 🏆 2022/23 Nedbank Cup Finalist (Lost narrowly but gained respect).
- 🌍 2023/24 CAF Confederation Cup participant – marking their debut in African football.
🟨 SECTION 7: Leadership and Management
The Team Behind the Success
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Executive Chairman | Simon Malatji |
| CEO | Jonas Malatji |
| General Manager | Gerald Komana |
| Football Manager | Phineas Madisha |
| Deputy Football Manager | Tshepo Malope |
With football and business experience at the helm, the Malatji brothers and their management team have emphasized professionalism, strategic growth, and infrastructure — key pillars of their fast rise
🟨 SECTION 8: Looking Ahead
Sekhukhune United’s Vision for the Future
Sekhukhune United is more than just a football club — it’s a rising sports brand. With ambitions to win silverware, expand their youth development pipeline, and maintain consistent CAF appearances, they represent the next generation of modern South African football clubs.
“We’re building not just for now, but for decades to come.” – Jonas Malatji
