The senior national team, Likuena, will go into their upcoming international friendlies against the Flames of Malawi in high spirits despite missing a few key players.
Likuena will be without two Botswana-based players, Lehlohonolo Fothoane of Township Rollers and Neo Mokhachane of Jwaneng Galaxy. Fothoane misses out due to a right groin strain, while Mokhachane has been excused at the request of his club.
Likuena are set to host Malawi at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on 15 and 18 November 2025, with the team departing for South Africa today.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Likuena’s head coach Leslie Notši expressed satisfaction with his side’s readiness for the back-to-back fixtures, noting that all players in camp are fit and available for selection.
“Since reporting for camp, all the players are in a good state with no injuries. The preparations have gone well, and the spirit in camp is high,” Notši explained.
He also commented on the two unavailable players: “As for Mokhachane, his team asked for him to be excused as they are in the middle of a critical training program, and to maintain good relations and ensure future cooperation, we accepted their request.”
Fothoane’s absence has paved the way for Lijabatho FC attacking midfielder Mpho Teele, who has earned a call-up as his replacement. Notši said the changes would give other players an opportunity to showcase their abilities.
“Their absence gives other players, especially new ones, a chance to play and show what they can offer the national team,” he said.
The two friendlies are expected to serve as a valuable test for Likuena, who last recorded a 1–0 victory over Zimbabwe in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Notši said the games would help his team maintain momentum and cohesion.
“We ended our World Cup qualifiers on a promising note, so these games will help us maintain consistency. Friendly matches are also a great platform to introduce young players without much pressure,” he added.
While maintaining a solid core of experienced campaigners, Notši has also introduced a few fresh faces, including Katleho Mochesane (LMPS FC) in goal, Ntoa Mphale (LCS FC) in defence, Mpho Teele (Lijabatho FC) in midfield, and Tlotliso Mapola (Majantja FC), who returns to the squad after a long absence.
“We want to build continuity and confidence. These matches are not just friendlies they are an opportunity to grow as a team,” Notši concluded.
Likuena Final Squad to Face Malawi
Goalkeepers:
Katleho Mochesane (LMPS FC), Sekhoane Moerane (Orbit College – South Africa), Leluma Mofoka (Matlama FC).
Defenders:
Rethabile Mokokoane (Matlama FC), Siyabonga Monyaka (Majantja FC), Motlomelo Kwanazi (Bantu FC), Thabo Makhele (Siwelele FC – South Africa), Fusi Matlabe (Lioli FC), Tlotliso Mapola (Majantja FC), Thabang Mlane (African Stars – Namibia), Ntoa Mphale (LCS FC).
Midfielders:
Tholang Makuru (Lioli FC), Kananelo Rapuleng (Bantu FC), Tšoarelo Bereng (Upington City FC), Tumelo Shai (Majantja FC), Tšepang Sefali (Linare FC), Jane Habantšo (Matlama FC), Lisema Lebokollane (LCS FC), Mpho Teele (Lijabatho FC), Makara Ntatisane (LCS FC).
Forwards:
Motebang Sera (Venda FC – South Africa), Keketso Snyders (LCS FC)
Summary
- “As for Mokhachane, his team asked for him to be excused as they are in the middle of a critical training program, and to maintain good relations and ensure future cooperation, we accepted their request.
- The two friendlies are expected to serve as a valuable test for Likuena, who last recorded a 1–0 victory over Zimbabwe in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
- While maintaining a solid core of experienced campaigners, Notši has also introduced a few fresh faces, including Katleho Mochesane (LMPS FC) in goal, Ntoa Mphale (LCS FC) in defence, Mpho Teele (Lijabatho FC) in midfield, and Tlotliso Mapola (Majantja FC), who returns to the squad after a long absence.
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.
