Seabata Mahao
Lesotho’s national football team, Likuena, will tomorrow face Angola in the first leg of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers in Durban, South Africa.
Victory in the crucial fixture will secure a spot for Likuena in the CHAN tournament, which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya next year.
Likuena has been in camp since November 15 to prepare for the important clash. The team departed for Durban on Wednesday and will complete their preparations upon arrival.
Likuena earned their spot in the qualifiers after a 1-0 victory over Namibia in the first leg and a dramatic penalty shootout win (4-3) following a 1-1 aggregate tie in the second leg.
Historically, Angola has had the upper hand, winning three of their last five encounters with Likuena, drawing once, and losing only once. Angola also defeated Lesotho 3-1 earlier this year during the COSAFA Cup.
Despite this, Likuena’s Head Coach, Leslie Notši, remains optimistic about his team’s chances. Speaking to the media ahead of the clash, Notši highlighted the team’s readiness and shared updates on the squad.
Two new players, Jane Thabantšo and 17-year-old Leluma Mofoka, both from Matlama Football Club, have joined the squad.
“Our team is ready to compete and bring victory home. Although we have had minor injury concerns with Lehlohonolo Fothoane and Hlompho Kalake, the medical team is confident that they will be fit to play,” said Notši.
Notši acknowledged Angola’s strengths but emphasised the importance of capitalising on scoring opportunities.
“Angola is a strong team that plays fast-paced football, but we have prepared for them. Our focus is on scoring goals to secure a strong position in the qualifiers,” he added.
The absence of key striker Lemohang Lintša, who was injured in the previous Likuena match against Morocco, is a notable setback. However, Thabantšo has been called up to strengthen the attacking lineup.
Also reflecting on their upcoming match, Likuena captain, Rethabile Rasethuntša, echoed the coach’s sentiments, emphasising the need for teamwork and determination.
“Angola outclassed us during the COSAFA games, but that ends now. It is time to show them what we are capable of,” Rasethuntša stated.
“For many of us, this is not our first time playing at this level, so we understand the significance of the match. We are committed to giving our best and bringing pride to Lesotho.”
The first leg of the CHAN qualifiers will take place tomorrow, with the second leg scheduled for December 28 in Luanda, Angola.
With a blend of experienced players and promising young talent, Likuena aims to overcome their past struggles against Angola. Coach Notši’s confidence in his team, combined with the players’ determination, sets the stage for an exciting encounter.
Likuena’s Provisional Squad:
Goalkeepers: Tankiso Chaba (LCS), Ntsane Molise (Linare), Leluma Mofoka (Matlama).
Defenders: Rethabile Mokokoane (Matlama), Mohlomi Makhetha (LCS), Rethabile Rasethunts’a (Linare), Mpho Hlephole (Lioli), Thabo Mafatle (Linare), and Thabo Matšoele (Bantu FC).
Midfielders: Lisema Lebokollane (Matlama), Lehlohonolo Matsau (LDF), Jerry Kamela (Lioli), Lehlohonolo Fothoane (Bantu), Hlompho Kalake (Bantu), Ts’epo Toloane (LDF), Moteloa Khemisi (Bantu), and Paseka Maile (Kick4Life).
Forwards: Katleho Makateng (LDF FC), Keketso Snyders (LCS FC), and Jane Thabantšo (Matlama).
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