Spirited Likuena take on Bafana

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – Senior football national team, Likuena, need maximum points in their crucial World Cup qualifier against neighbours, Bafaba Bafana, this evening at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane in South Africa.

Leslie Notši, Likuena’s head coach, believes this upcoming qualifying game is crucial for his charges, indicating that Likuena desperately need to earn points, though he pointed out that playing two away matches presents a challenge.

However, he found consolation in that Likuena have been playing away games frequently, and likely accustomed to the travel and away-game environment. But he was quick to point out that they will have to dig deep to secure the crucial three points.

He added that facing teams like Bafana Bafana will require a significant effort, but they are confident in their ability to rise to the occasion. He said, these are the kinds of games Likoena, as a smaller club, thrives on, believing they offer valuable experience and opportunities to improve their competitiveness.

Notši stated that they have a points-gaining strategy in place for their upcoming matches against Bafana Bafana and Rwanda.

He said, if they can secure points from both games, it will be a significant achievement, though earning those points will be challenging.

However, Notši believes the Bafana Bafana match is highly anticipated by supporters and likely to be humdinger, as the neighbours do not play each other frequently. He expects a great encounter.

Notši acknowledged that Group C contains strong teams, describing it as a “lion’s den.”

Despite this, he was pleased with their unexpectedly strong start, securing points they hadn’t anticipated. He sees the upcoming matches as a chance for Likuena, the nation, and the football association to demonstrate their commitment through full preparation and support.

“Consistency in earning points is key, allowing us to remain competitive and challenge for a top spot in the group,” said Notši.

He expressed disappointment, however, at Likuena’s failure to qualify for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), citing challenges of playing both North and West African teams, and particularly the logistical difficulties of back-to-back matches.

However, he emphasized the importance of carrying the momentum from the AFCON and CHAN games into the World Cup qualifiers, using those experiences for the team’s growth and improved performance.

Lesotho currently holds five points after four qualifying matches. South Africa, meanwhile, has seven points from the same number of games. Lesotho’s record includes one win, two draws, and one loss.

Lesotho’s upcoming fixtures include two qualifiers matches this month, given their next encounter on March 25 against Rwanda in Kigali.