Mikia Kalati
MASERU — Likuena coach Leslie Notsi has named eight new faces in his 25-man squad to do duty in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Ghana and Sudan next month.
The Lesotho senior national team troop into camp on Thursday to begin preparations for the crucial ties.
Likuena will take on Ghana in the Group D opening match in Accra on June 3.
A week later they face Sudan in another qualifier at Setsoto Stadium.
Notsi has called up the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) duo of Janefeke Molibeli and Mokoenanyane Moahloli following their impressive performances in the 2011/12 Vodacom Premier League season.
Notsi has also shown faith in Linare’s Mabuti Potloane and Bantu striker Mpho Matsinyane.
Former Under-20 stars Basia Makepe, Jeremiah Kamele, South Africa-based Tumesang Bereng of Highlands Park and Bantu’s Mosiuoa Boseka, are also part of the provisional squad.
Veteran Lesotho Correctional Services (LCS) goalkeeper, Kholuoe Phasumane, makes a return to the squad after a two-year absence.
The lanky goal-minder’s performance between the sticks for champions LCS in the later stages of the just-ended season saw him overtake Sam Ketsekile as Masheshena’s first choice.
Notsi has also recalled midfield hard-man Ralekoti Mokhahlane who missed Likuena’s matches against Sao Tomè and Principe in January due to ill-discipline.
Free-scoring and inform Matlama midfield maestro, Pali Tšalong, will also be expected to carry his club form to the national team.
“Both Ghana and Sudan were at the Africa Nations Cup tournament in January and we have to be at our best to compete against them,” Notsi said.
“This is an excellent opportunity to look at other players. We have some exciting youngsters who did well in league matches. We have given them a chance to prove their worth and understand our philosophy.”
Meanwhile, an excited Tšalong told the Sunday Express that he is relishing the Ghana challenge.
“I’m looking forward to the two matches and hopefully I will get a chance to transform my club form to the national team,” Tšalong said, adding that it is always an honour for any player to represent his country.
“We all know that Ghana is a tough opponent, but we are up to the fight,” he said.
Likuena squad
Goalkeeper: Mohau Koenane, Kholuoe Phasumane
Defenders: Thabo Masualle, Tlali Maile, Moitheri Ntobo, Nkau Lerotholi, Basia Makepe, Tumelo Bereng, Thapelo Mokhehle, Tšoanelo Koetle Tumisang Bereng.
Midfielders: Ralekoti Mokhahlane, Janefeke Molibeli, Pali Tšalong, Mosiuoa Boseka, Katleho Moleko, Motlalepula Mofolo, Mabuti Potloane, Jeremiah Kamele, Bokang Mothoana.
Lehlomela Ramabele, Dlomo Monaphathi, Thapelo Tale, Mokoenanyane Moahloli, Mpho Matsinyane