MASERU — Lesotho’s Under-20 national team, Makoanyane XI, will take part in an invitational four-nation tournament in Sharpeville, South Africa, which begins today and ends on Saturday.
The side, coached by Leslie Notši, left on Tuesday for the tournament which also includes Swaziland, Botswana and hosts South Africa.
Speaking before the side’s departure the team’s manager, Khiba Mohoanyane, said the tournament was vital preparation for Lesotho’s CAF Youth Championships qualifier against Mozambique next month.
“We regard it as very important (because) after the tournament we might struggle to have matches to prepare,” he said.
“We have some proposals but there is nothing concrete yet.”
Mohoanyane said the squad, which includes five players from Premier League leaders Matlama, was the strongest possible.
“We were able get the players we wanted because this is the team that will face Mozambique,” he said.
Makoanyane XI are due to host their Mozambican counterparts in the first leg on April 18.
However with Setsoto Stadium unavailable on that date, the Lesotho Football Association has asked CAF to postpone Lesotho’s home leg to May.
If the request is unsuccessful Mohoanyane said the match will be played at the Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena or at LCS’s Central Prison ground.
The return leg in Mozambique is scheduled for the weekend of April 30.
Lesotho Under-20 squad:
Goalkeepers: Kananelo Makhooane (Likhopo), Baholo Sefatsa (Nyenye Rovers)
Defenders: Basia Makepe, Selbourne Lekhooa, Mari Moloi Tšoanelo Koetle, Kopano Motaung, Moremoholo Maphakisa, Pitso Monne
Midfielders: Litšepe Marabe, Tau Qobose, Mosioua Boseka, Jerry Kamela, Rethabile Raotse, Thabiso Mohapi, Owen Lebata, Kopano Tseka, Napo Sehloho
Strikers: Montoeli Senopo, Mohau Khali, Bafokeng Mosala, Lebajoa Mosehlanyane
