ABC Motsepe League, Eastern Cape | 31 October 2026
Amaxesibe FC return to Emaxesibeni Stadium on Friday 31 October to host fellow Mthatha side Bush Bucks FC in the ABC Motsepe League Eastern Cape stream, with a 15:00 kick-off. It is a derby in every sense — two clubs from the same city, familiar faces on both benches, and local pride riding on the result. The Red Army go into the game looking to bounce back after a 3-0 defeat away at Sinenkani last time out, and the comfort of home surroundings could hardly come at a better moment. A settled starting eleven and a deep bench give the hosts every reason for confidence.
The Starting XI
Gucci takes his place between the posts, with a back line of Banele, Wantu, Balu and Phelo charged with keeping the visitors at arm’s length. Marhewu, Ntloko and Sherris make up the engine room in midfield, tasked with controlling the tempo and feeding the forward line. Up top, Mawande, Messi and Paul carry the attacking threat — a front three with the pace and movement to test the Bush Bucks defence throughout the afternoon.
Strength In Reserve
The bench offers real options should the game call for a change of plan. Ntlaka, Lihle, Lefty, Hotto, Mshunqisi, Chuma, Manee, Ngoja and Mavura are all available, giving the coaching staff cover across every line and the freedom to adjust as the match unfolds. In a derby that could hinge on fine margins late on, that depth may prove decisive.
A Derby To Reset The Season
After a bruising trip to Sinenkani, this is exactly the fixture Amaxesibe would have chosen to get back on track — at home, in front of their own supporters, against opponents they know well. Derbies rarely follow the form book, and the Red Army will be determined to set the tone early and let the Emaxesibeni crowd do the rest. A positive result here would put the disappointment of the last outing firmly behind them.
