…as LeFA appoints interim technical team
…Mafoso tipped to take over as head coach
Leemisa Thuseho
THE senior national football team, Likuena, has begun preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The 2027 AFCON tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
As one of the lowest-ranked teams in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA rankings, Likuena will start their qualification campaign in the preliminary rounds, where they are set to face Seychelles in March, with dates and venues yet to be announced.
In preparation for the crucial encounter, the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) has appointed an interim technical team to oversee preparations as the association finalises the process of appointing a substantive head coach.
The team reported to camp on Monday for medical tests before resuming training sessions yesterday under the guidance of the interim technical team led by former LeFA technical director, Lehlohonolo Thotanyana.
Thotanyana is being assisted by Tšepo Hlojeng, Shokhoe Matsoai and Mosa Moseneke.
LeFA said the interim technical team’s engagement will end immediately once a new head coach officially assumes duty.
“Likuena have started preparations for the AFCON qualifiers preliminary round tie against Seychelles under an interim technical team, which will come to an end immediately when the new head coach is appointed,” LeFA announced this week.
Meanwhile, the process of appointing a new head coach is at an advanced stage.
The recruitment panel has completed interviews and recommended Bob Mafoso for appointment as the national team’s head coach.
However, the Lesotho Football Association executive committee is yet to make a final decision on the recommendation.
Mafoso previously served as Likuena assistant coach under Leslie Notši, whose engagement came to an end last month.
LeFA secretary general, Mokhosi Mohapi, told this publication that following the panel’s recommendation, the executive committee still has the final say and may either approve or reject the candidate.
He said all processes are expected to be concluded by next week.
