Likuena secures semi-final spot with a game to spare

Lesotho became the first country to secure a semi-final spot at the ongoing Hollywoodbets COSAFA Cup in Durban following their 1-0 victory over Mozambique at Princess Magogo Stadium.

Neo Mokhachane was the hero once again for the Leslie Notsi’s coached side, scoring the solitary goal that took Likuena to the summit of the Group C with six points.

The 26-year-old Bantu winger has scored in back-to-back matches having netted the first of the two goals in the opening 2-0 victory over Mauritius.

Lesotho will play final Group C match with Angola already guaranteed of a place in the semi-final for the first time since 2019.

“We are quite satisfied with the performance of the boys and also, I would like to give credit to the Mozambican team, they played a very good game, I think they brought the best out of our boys,” Notsi explained.

“It was a game that one can say, they really pushed us to the limit and I’m happy that the boys came up with the three points.”

With qualification for the semi-finals already secured, Notsi feels the next match against Angola will give them a chance to rotate their team and bring in fresh legs into the starting line-up.

“We intend that the next match, we will try as much as we can to rotate the players because the match against Mozambique was very tough and the legs are now getting fatigued, and we need to see to it that we rotate and give other players a chance,” Notsi said.

“Players like Mokhachane, Tšepang Sefali and Thabang Malane have ceased the opportunity, they enjoyed themselves and played according to the plan.

“I think everyone within the team setup up has given his all and we are quite happy with how things have gone so far,” he said.

The veteran Lesotho coach admitted that his team impressive start to the competition brings them a lot of attention but stated that their approach is to take it one game at the time.

“It does bring a lot of pressure, but we are taking it one game at the time, we cherish every moment  that comes with it. Clean sheets are great for our goalkeeping department, it gives everyone especially the defence line that confidence, that they are able to play together as a team,” added Notsi.

He also expressed his gratitude to Basotho, who were able to travel all the way from Lesotho to support their team despite the cold weather conditions.

“The supporters are always a big part of any team, they bring that confidence to the players and we always appreciate them coming through and like you say, the weather conditions are bad, but they are there sharing and giving the boys the twelve-player support. We really appreciate them coming through to this match.”