By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
-Lebalang Mokete’s appointment as a referee in the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations-Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Qualifiers’ final match marks a significant milestone not just for him, but also for Lesotho’s rich heritage in sports officiating.
His rise to prominence in African football exemplifies the increasing recognition of African referees on the continental stage.
Under the watchful eye of Lesotho’s very own Mokete, the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations-COSAFA Qualifiers kicked off with high hopes and intense competition.
Mokete’s reputation for unwavering impartiality and composure under pressure has set him apart in a sport where decisions can be crucial. His journey reflects dedication and hard work, embodying the qualities that aspiring referees around the continent strive to emulate. Refereeing at such a prestigious event is not just an honor; it also places him on the spotlight to showcase his skill at managing the game and maintaining fairness.
As he steps onto the pitch for the final match, his presence is inspiration for young referees in Lesotho and beyond. Mokete’s commitment to excellence helps build faith in the integrity of the officiating process, and his leadership contributes to a level playing field, essential for the spirit of competition.
This historic moment for him is a testament to the evolving landscape of African football, where referees are now recognized as pivotal figures in the game. His appointment could pave the way for future generations, emphasizing the importance of training, mentorship, and opportunities in developing the next wave of officiating talent in the region.
All eyes will be on him, whose calm demeanor and authoritative decision-making will be critical in ensuring the match unfolds smoothly. The legacy of Lesotho’s refereeing continues to thrive with Mokete at the forefront, highlighting that each whistle blown has the potential to change the trajectory of the sport.
His journey is not just about personal achievement; it represents hope and ambition for emerging referees, reinforcing the message that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to reach great heights in African sport.
Officiating these pivotal matches, Mokete brought a unique blend of expertise, passion, and pride to the pitch, representing Lesotho as a shining beacon of professionalism and sportsmanship. His presence is a testament to the ever-growing strength and prominence of Lesotho’s sporting community on the international stage.
Sporting a gleaming whistle and a fierce determination, Mokete has been elevated to the pinnacle of the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations-COSAFA Qualifiers as the Central Referee for the highly-anticipated final match.
Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the Matola Campo ABB Stadium in Mozambique, Mokete will step into the spotlight, tasked with ensuring that the competition between South Africa (SA) and Zambia remains fair and fiercely contested.
Hailing from Mafeteng, Lesotho, the prodigious talent of Lebalang Mokete burst forth in his teenage years, following cultivation in the fertile fields of Qoaling. Now, as his journey reaches its zenith, he will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with two esteemed assistant referees from Angola and Mauritius, while a distinguished official from Comoros serves as the Fourth official.
The first Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) Vice-President, Mr Khiba Mohoanyane, will be the regal overseer, acting as Match Commissioner for this epic contest between SA and Zambia.
This grand finale of the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations-COSAFA Qualifiers will be marked by his unifying presence, flanked by a stellar crew of assistant referees from Angola and Mauritius, with a distinguished official from Comoros occupying the Fourth official position.
Lesotho’s distinguished referee, joins an esteemed group of trailblazers, becoming the third Lesotho official to oversee a high-profile final on the African stage.
Souru Phats’oane made history as the first to referee the TotalEnergies Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League final, while Nteboheleng Setoko became a champion herself, officiating the CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA Qualifiers’ thrilling conclusion.
Stepping onto the field with the weight of Lesotho’s rich refereeing heritage on his shoulders, Lebalang Mokete etches his name into the annals of African football, joining the elite ranks of Lesotho’s own Souru Phats’oane and Nteboheleng Setoko as game-changers.
The torch of excellence, lit by Souru Phats’oane’s historic CAF Champions League final and carried with distinction by Nteboheleng Setoko’s commanding presence at the CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA Qualifiers’ final, is now entrusted to Mokete.
As the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations-COSAFA Qualifiers reach their crescendo, Lebalang Mokete, armed with Lesotho’s unwavering refereeing tradition, readies himself to step into the spotlight, joining the likes of Setoko as the nation’s luminaries of the game.