LIKUENA star midfielder Lehlohonolo Fothoane’s impressive performance at the opening matches of the recently ended COSAFA Cup mesmerised SuperSport pundits, who spoke highly of the gifted playmaker.
sports
July 22, 2021
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Fothoane impresses SuperSport pundits
Likuena midfielder, Lehlohonolo Futhoane (left)
Lesotho were eliminated in the group stages of the regional tournament that was held at Nelson Mandela Bay after a poor showing, having clinched only one victory from four Group A matches.
The 24-year-old, who played at his second COSAFA Cup competition, was among Likuena’s remarkable players in the opening two matches, including a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Eswatini and a 2-1 victory over Zambia.
Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, William “Coo Cat” Shongwe, who works as a commentator and pundit for SuperSport, said he was impressed by the Bantu and Likuena number 10’s performance against Eswatini and Zambia, although his zeal later dropped in the competition.
“I didn’t know about him before the tournament, but what a talent. He raised his hand in the opening matches against Eswatini and Zambia only to fade away in the other games,” Shongwe said.
“A lot of people from different clubs called me to enquire about the player, but unfortunately his performance dropped in the other matches. Had he maintained that performance, I believe it would have opened doors for him to get a contract in South Africa.
“I think Lesotho as a team faded away after the first two matches. Physically, the team was not at the level they showed against Eswatini and Zambia.”
Shongwe also praised South Africa-based trio of Tshwarelo Bereng, Tumelo Khutlang and Motebang Sera, who were also outstanding at the tournament.
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Khutlang was named Man of the Match in the 2-1 victory over Zambia while Sera came from the bench to score the two goals that handed Likuena their only victory in the tournament to also become the country’s all time top goal scorer at the competition.
“Khutlang we know, Sera we know, Bereng we also know because they have been playing at the highest level and are top players,” the SuperSport commentator said.
Grant Bisset, who is also a commentator for SuperSport, echoed his colleague’s sentiments, singling out Fothoane and Khutlang among Likuena’s players that impressed during the tournament.
“The obvious Khutlang, I enjoyed Lebokollane when he was in the midfield. Fothoane definitely had some flashes here and there,” Bisset said.
South Africa were crowned champions after defeating the West African side, Senegal 5-4 on penalties in the final on Sunday. Senegal were guests at the tournament.
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