The Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) has taken a significant step towards appointing a new head coach for the senior national team, Likuena, after confirming that interviews for the position began this week.
In a statement dated January 21, 2025, LeFA disclosed that the recruitment process officially commenced on Thursday, January 22, with shortlisted candidates undergoing interviews conducted by a diverse and experienced panel.
The panel comprises members of the LeFA Technical Committee, the LeFA Technical Director, and representatives from the Lesotho Football Coaches Association.
“To accommodate both local and international applicants, the interviews commenced with in-person sessions for locally based coaches on Thursday, while virtual interviews for coaches in the diaspora were conducted on Friday,” the statement read.
A total of seven coaches have been shortlisted in the race to take over the reins of Likuena, following the departure of former head coach Leslie Notši three months ago. LeFA has indicated that the appointment process will be concluded swiftly, with a new head coach expected to be in place by February 1, effectively ending a period of uncertainty surrounding the national team’s technical leadership.
The vacancy has attracted strong interest from both local and international coaches. Among the notable local candidates are LMPS FC head coach HalemakaleMahlaha, Matlama FC interim coach Thabile Secker, Lijabatho FC head coach James Madidilane, and Linare FC tactician JabulaniMendu. Former Bantu FC head coach Abram Moeketsi Mongoya is also in contention, while BonganiMaseko, who parted ways with Lioli FC in December 2025, has likewise entered the race.
Whoever is appointed will face an immediate and demanding task. Likuena are scheduled to play a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) preliminary round tie against Seychelles in March, contested over two legs. The first leg will be played away from home, placing early emphasis on tactical organisation, mental composure, and the importance of securing an away goal should tie-breaking regulations come into play.
With time not on their side, LeFA’s choice of head coach will be critical—not only in stabilising the national team but also in ensuring that Likuena remain competitive on the continental stage as AFCON qualification hangs in the balance.
Summary
- A total of seven coaches have been shortlisted in the race to take over the reins of Likuena, following the departure of former head coach Leslie Notši three months ago.
- LeFA has indicated that the appointment process will be concluded swiftly, with a new head coach expected to be in place by February 1, effectively ending a period of uncertainty surrounding the national team’s technical leadership.
- With time not on their side, LeFA’s choice of head coach will be critical—not only in stabilising the national team but also in ensuring that Likuena remain competitive on the continental stage as AFCON qualification hangs in the balance.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
