Noko Matlou’s CP Cacereno qualifies for 2024/25 Spanish Laliga F playoffs

This after their convincing 1-0 win over Deportivo Alavés Gloriosas in the final match of the Primera Federación division on Sunday afternoon.

It saw the team claim fifth place on the log with 41 points - to give them a lifeline in the first division playoffs.

In an exclusive interview with SABC Sport, Matlou says she is glad that the campaign which she believes was tough came to an end with a spot in the playoffs.

“I feel very happy, we wanted an automatic qualification but we ended up qualifying for the playoffs. This means a great deal for my career - because it means if we qualify I then get to return to the first division after my time with Eibar. It has not been an easy journey but we are happy that we finished as one of the top teams in the league,’’ said Matlou.

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Matlou says she is glad that they wrapped up the season with a home game, which gave them get an extra push from their fans.

“It was our objective to get to where we are, this means we are one of the best teams in the second division. I am also glad that we managed to play our final match of the season at home, that gave us a boost in front of the home crowd,’’ added Matlou.

The 39-year-old says she is impressed with how they managed to turn things around as a team having started the season quite slow in the first eight matches.

“We started very slow, but it is impressive to see that we were strong enough to turn things around. Now we have to go and fight for the badge in the playoffs,’’

With almost six years playing in Spain, Matlou explains how she has managed to maintain consistency in a foreign country and further shared the reason behind her move from SD Eibar to Cacereno.

“I’ve been in Spain for a while now, playing over here gave me a new challenge. The experience has taught me dedication, and has taught me to survive outside of my comfort zone. When I left Eibar I needed a new challenge, wanted to test myself in terms of how far I can go with a new team. I must say that I am happy with the decision and happy with my contribution to the team. So far so good,’’ she expressed.