Mikia Kalati
LIKUENA coach Moses Maliehe has declared a clean bill of health ahead of his charges’ 2017 Council of Southern Africa Football Association (COSAFA) quarterfinal clash with Namibia at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, South Africa on Saturday.
Maliehe had been sweating over the fitness of captain Bokang Mothoana and striker Thapelo Tale who sustained injuries in the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier away to Tanzania.
He however, revealed the duo had since recovered in time for Saturday’s tie.
“Our preparations have been going well and our two players that had injury concerns have recovered,” Maliehe said.
“Tale returned to training on Monday while Mothoana is doing light training, but our medical team will continue to keep an eye on them.”
Maliehe said they were aiming to improve on last year’s quarterfinal finish in the tournament that was won by South Africa.
“It is within our reach and we have an equal chance with other teams.
“All we have to do is to work hard and not take our opponents for granted.
“They have a number of players that ply their trade in South Africa and that shows that they are a side on a mission.”
He said the fact that Namibia won the tournament in 2015, meant they could not be underestimated.
“It will be one game at a time. The spirit is very high in the team and every wants to play his part.”
He said newcomer, Napo Matsoso was settling well and developing a good understanding with his teammates.
“With the way he has responded, he will get his chance at the tournament to show what he can do.”
Maliehe has also been forced to trim his squad to the required 20 players.
The LCS duo of Poloko Mohale and Daniel Jousse as well as Thabiso Brown of Kick4Life who is on trials at South African side Bloemfontein Celtic have all been dropped.
Likuena squad for COSAFA Cup:
Goalkeepers: Likano Mphuthi, Sam Ketsekile.
Defenders: Thapelo Mokhehle, Mafa Moremoholo, Bokang Sello, Itumeleng Falene, Kopano Tseka, Motlomelo Mkwanazi.
Midfielders: Thabiso Mohapi, Tšoanelo Koetle, Bokang Mothoana, Hlompho Kalake, Mabuti Potloane, Kefuoe Mahula, Jane Thabantšo.
Strikers: Thapelo Tale, Motebang Sera, and Tumelo Khutlang.
