Venda FC overhaul squad with 13 new arrivals for fresh start

The Limpopo-based club, who only secured their survival on the final day of the 2024/25 campaign, will begin their new journey on Friday, 22 August, with a daunting away fixture against recently relegated Cape Town City FC at Athlone Stadium.

Head coach Clinton Larsen - fresh from guiding Magesi FC to top-flight promotion - has taken charge of Venda and will be assisted by local tactician Solly Luvhengo. The pair were introduced alongside the squad during a team presentation at Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge, just outside Louis Trichardt.

Among the most notable additions are former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Chris Matombo and ex-Maritzburg United and Magesi winger Deolin Mekoa.

They headline a list that also features Selvyn Jacobs, Tebogo Makobela, Gregory Demons, Thato Lingwati, Sibongiseni Ngcobo, Anathi Ngwadla, Neo Ntombela, Rendani Ramakgapola, Motebang Sera, Unarine Kudzingana and Joseph Mazibuko.

While expectations around Venda remain modest, Larsen believes that could play to their advantage.

"This league is always competitive, and I prefer working quietly without much attention," Larsen told FarPost.

"Last season everyone spoke about the so-called big teams, and we managed to surprise a few. The same can happen here. The focus will be on Cape Town City, Baroka FC, Black Leopards and Casric Stars, but our job is to build a side that can compete and prove we belong."

For Venda supporters, the wholesale rebuild offers a sense of optimism. After flirting with relegation last season, the club will now be banking on its new recruits and Larsen's experience to spark a turnaround.