Lijabatho FC coach Kabelo Malapane says leading the Lesotho League Champions in the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League is a dream come true.

The South African-born coach, a native of Polokwane who has been coaching in Lesotho for years, is over the moon with the opportunity to lead Mahala as they kick off their continental campaign against CFFA of Madagascar.

Malapane was the assistant to fellow South African James Madidilane when Lijabatho clinched their maiden league title last season. He admitted the opportunity to take charge came earlier than expected after Madidilane left for greener pastures in South Africa, where he joined Golden Arrows.

“It’s a dream of every coach. On my future pyramid I thought it would come in my 40s, but it has come in my 30s. So I’m excited. We are hoping to do well and make Mahala proud and the people of Lesotho as a whole,” Malapane said.

“Lesotho is my second home and I would like to thank the Lijabatho FC President and all the clubs that I’ve worked with for the amazing opportunity that they gave me. I really appreciate it.”

Malapane believes he has good support systems around him that will make his job easier as he embarks on his biggest coaching assignment in the CAF Champions League.

“This is a big responsibility for me, to represent the Mahala nation and Lesotho as a whole. But for me it is an amazing experience and a great opportunity. To be honest, these boys can’t wait. The mood is 100%. It proves that Lesotho players are good and talented,” added the Polokwane-born coach.

“I watched a few of their videos. They have good players to be honest, but we will push even harder to try to overcome them.”

Malapane stated that he has also consulted other coaches with more experience of continental football, such as Likuena coach Bob Mafoso. He is also in constant communication with the likes of Gavin Hunt and Eric Tinkler, with whom he was in class together doing the CAF A License Coaching Diploma with the South African Football Association.