Mikia Kalati
LIKUENA coach Moses Maliehe says he was disappointed after his side conceded a late goal to allow Cape Verde back into the game in Sunday’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier.
The two countries drew 1-1 at Setsoto Stadium after the home side had taken the lead on the 75th minute before Cape Verde equalised six minutes later.
Maliehe said while he was impressed by the team’s showing for the better part of game, he was still disappointed that they conceded a late goal and lost points.
“Of course, we could have done better and it was disappointing to give away such a silly goal in the dying minutes of the game to settle for a draw,” Maliehe said.
He however, said he remains optimistic that his side can still book a place in next year’s competition to be staged in Cameroon.
Likuena are second with two points behind Uganda with four points.
The Cranes were also held to a goalless draw at home by their regional rivals Tanzania on Saturday.
Likuena will travel to Uganda in October in their next match and Maliehe said his side must improve its defending.
“The performance for the better part of the game was impressive and I am happy with what I saw. However, I think it was a lesson for the team despite the heart-break after I had warned the players to remain focused in the last minutes of the game.
“We will not that point as we shift our focus to the next match against Uganda,” he said.
Maliehe he is aware that it will be a different game for his side playing away to East African in October.
“We know that Uganda are a strong side and the fact that they are on top of the group speaks volumes about their quality but we have to believe in our dream and continue to work hard for it. Every game is a learning curve and I am confident that we learnt a few things from the mistakes we made against Cape Verde.
“The motivation for the game in Uganda will also be that we always do well in away games and have to maintain those standards,” Maliehe said.
Maliehe sang praises for Tshwarelo Bereng, who was among Likuena’s best players on his debut for the team.
“I am glad he proved that he is a quality player. I never had doubts that he will add value to the team and all that is left for him and the rest of the squad is to continue playing at club level,” Maliehe said.
