By Mikia Kalati
MASERU-Newly-appointed Matlama coach, Mofihli Makoele, says he is the right man to bring stability into the country’s most successful football club.
The former Lesotho Football Association (Lefa) chief executive officer was unveiled as Tse Putsoa’s new coach on Monday, taking over from Lehlohonolo Mokhele and Sello Seholoholo, who had been leading the team on a caretaker basis.
The nine-time league champions had been without a substantive coach since parting ways with Mokoena Mohale last year.
Makoele, who played for Matlama in the late 80s, feels his new team still has a chance to win the league title provided both Bantu and Lioli, who are currently on first and second position respectively, slip-up.
“It’s an exciting challenge and I’m looking forward to bringing back the glory days at the club,” he said.
Makoele, who left the Lefa post in 2012, coached clubs such as Lerotholi Polytechnic and the now-defunct Ambassadors and Birds during their Premier League days.
The 48-year-old also had a long spell as the Sefika High School football team coach, where he worked with some of the country’s best players, among them Tefo Maipato and Katleho Moleko.
“Matlama have a very youthful squad and those are the kind of players that I enjoy working with because they are always willing to learn.
“That is why I am confident the club can conquer the domestic league and also do well in the African Champions League. I can’t wait to get started and help the club win trophies,” said Makoele, who holds an English Football Association B Coaching Licence.
Matlama Public Relations Officer, Ramafahla Thamae, told the Lesotho Times that Makoele beat former LDF coach, Motheo Mohapi, to the post.
“The management felt he was the best candidate for the job, and considering his experience working with youngsters, it was also felt he can revive our youth structures,” Thamae said.
“He had a good record coaching the Sefika High School team where he helped a lot of youngsters, some of them here at Matlama, become better players.”
Thamae further said the club was looking at the future when engaging Makoele.
“We don’t necessarily want the league championship this year, but it has to be the top priority next season.
“Again, Makoele is the right man to mentor Mokhele and Seholoholo, who worked as the team’s caretaker coaches over the past few months.”
