LeFA Restructures Girls’ National Teams to Boost Youth Development

The Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) has announced significant changes within its girls’ junior national teams, appointing new technical staff in a strategic move to maintain the momentum gained from recent international performances.

At the centre of the changes is the promotion of coach Tjamela Tjamela, who now takes over the reins of the Girls U20 national team, Likhosatsana. This team is made up largely of players who were part of the Lishoeshoe squad that reached the final of the COSAFA Girls U-17 Championship, showcasing great potential before narrowly losing to Zambia in the final.

According to LeFA’s Media and Communications Manager, Mr. Mikia Kalati, the restructuring is intended to ensure continuity in player development. He explained that the promotion of these players to the U20 level required a technical team that understands their strengths and growth trajectory. “It’s important that we support the progression of these young athletes by surrounding them with experienced coaches who can take them to the next level,” Kalati said.

Tjamela will lead a skilled technical team that includes Lijabatho Ladies head coach Mr. Moroesi Lazaro as assistant coach and former Likuena goalkeeper Mr. Ts’epo Mathetha, who brings valuable experience from his time with Lesotho’s senior and junior national squads.

In another key appointment, the U17 Girls team, Lishoeshoe, will now be coached by Ms. Elizabeth Yelimala, the current head coach of Kick4Life Women. Yelimala recently made history by guiding her club to their first Women Super League title, making her a fitting candidate to nurture the country’s emerging talent at the grassroots level.

These changes reflect LeFA’s commitment to strengthening its women’s football structures and providing consistent opportunities for growth and development within the national setup. By investing in technical leadership and building continuity from youth levels, LeFA is laying the foundation for long-term success on the regional and international stage.