Seabata Mahao
A female refereeing trio of Nteboheleng Setoko, Polotsi Maapara, and Selloane Mphuthing is currently officiating in the Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship, which began on October 22 in Gqeberha, South Africa.
The three referees have been making impressive strides in the football world, and their selection for the COSAFA tournament highlights Lesotho’s growing reputation for excellence in football officiating.
Setoko and Maapara have already demonstrated their skills by officiating in the recent CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA Qualifiers in Malawi.
Setoko made history by becoming the first referee in the region to officiate two successive finals in the tournament, a significant achievement that underscores her refereeing expertise.
Mphuthing has also distinguished herself in the world of football officiating. Earlier this year, she was part of the officiating team for the CAF Champions League, showcasing her ability alongside her male counterparts.
This marks a positive step toward gender equality in the sport and highlights her exceptional refereeing talent.
Meanwhile, Lebalang Mokete was appointed to officiate the final of the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations-COSAFA Qualifiers in Mozambique, while 20-year-old referee Lipontša Lekuba made headlines by officiating the final of the CAF African Schools Football Championship-COSAFA Qualifiers in Namibia this past weekend.
The Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship is an annual football tournament organized by the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) for women’s national teams in the region.
“Their call-ups not only bring pride to Lesotho but also serve as an inspiration to aspiring referees across the country. These three match officials are paving the way for the next generation of referees in Lesotho, proving that with determination and hard work, anything is possible,” the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) stated.
