By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
The echoes of training roar of encouragement will soon fill the air as Lesotho’s senior national football teams, Likuena (The Crocodiles) and Mehalalitoe (The Lilies), return to the training grounds on Monday, February 10th. With crucial international fixtures on the horizon, both squads are set to embark on rough preparations, aiming to showcase their prowess and represent their nation with pride.
Mehalalitoe, the women’s national team, have a double-header against neighboring South Africa’s Banyana Banyana to look forward to. These two friendly matches, scheduled during the FIFA break from February 17th to 26th, offer a valuable opportunity for Mehalalitoe to test their mettle against one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.
Banyana Banyana, renowned for their skill and tactical discipline, will provide a stern challenge for Mehalalitoe, allowing them to measure their progress and identify areas for improvement. These friendlies are not just warm-up matches, they are a chance for Mehalalitoe to make a statement, to demonstrate their own rising talent, and to gain invaluable experience against top-tier opposition. The matches will undoubtedly be a source of national pride and an opportunity to showcase the growing strength of women’s football in Lesotho.
For Likuena, the focus is firmly fixed on the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Drawn into Group C, Lesotho faces intimidating task, with matches against opponents like South Africa and Rwanda looming in March.
The return to training on February 10th marks the commencement of a crucial period of preparation. Every training session, every tactical discussion, and every fitness drill will be geared towards ensuring Likuena are in peak condition for these pivotal qualifying matches. The stakes are high, with the dream of World Cup qualification hanging in the balance. Likuena will need to be at their absolute best to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
The significance of these upcoming fixtures cannot be overstated. For Mehalalitoe, the friendlies against Banyana Banyana are a chance to build momentum, to refine their strategies, and to gain confidence against a world-class team. These matches will also serve as an important platform to raise the profile of women’s football in Lesotho and inspire the next generation of female footballers. A strong performance against South Africa would not only boost morale within the team but also garner greater support and recognition for women’s sports in the country.
For Likuena, the World Cup Qualifiers represent the highpoint of international football. Facing established footballing nations like South Africa and Rwanda will be a true test of their abilities. These matches are not just about winning; they are about demonstrating the progress that Lesotho football has made, about showcasing the talent and determination of its players, and about instilling a sense of national pride. A successful qualifying campaign would be a momentous achievement for Lesotho, solidifying its place on the African footballing map.
The return to training on February 10th signals the beginning of a demanding but exciting period for both national teams. The players will be expected to dedicate themselves fully to the training regime, pushing their physical and mental limits to ensure they are in peak condition for the upcoming challenges. The coaching staff will play a crucial role in preparing the teams, implementing effective training programs, refining strategic approaches, and fostering a strong team spirit.
Beyond the physical preparations, the mental aspect of the game will also be crucial. Both Likuena and Mehalalitoe will need to approach their respective fixtures with confidence, belief, and a strong sense of unity. The support of the nation will be vital, providing the players with the motivation and encouragement they need to perform at their best.
As the countdown to these crucial matches begins, the entire nation will be watching with bated breath, hoping to see their national teams excel on the international stage. The players will carry the hopes and dreams of a nation on their shoulders, driven by a desire to represent Lesotho with pride and passion. The upcoming weeks will be a test of skill, determination, and teamwork, and the performances of Likuena and Mehalalitoe will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of footballers in Lesotho. The journey begins on February 10th, and the nation awaits with anticipation.