Former Matlama coach Molebatsi Mothobi is making significant strides in the Women Super League (WSL) with Lijabatho Ladies. He has guided the team to five victories in as many matches, with an impressive defensive record of not conceding a single goal while scoring 12. Mothobi, who holds a Confederation of African Football (CAF) A Coaching Licence, has previously coached several men's teams, including Lijabatho's men's side, LMPS, Linare, and Rangers.
Mothobi's decision to coach a women's team represents a new direction in his coaching career. He believes that coaching women's football is an important step in his professional growth, and he is enjoying the challenge. Mothobi notes that women's football approaches the game differently, with distinct physicality and body structure compared to men's football. Lijabatho Ladies currently sit second in the league standings with 15 points, three behind leaders and defending champions LDF Ladies, although they have a game in hand.
Mothobi has expressed his ambition to win the league title, having previously won the Premier League with Matlama in the 2021/22 season. He emphasized that his players are committed and determined, and that not conceding goals is part of their target. The team's next assignment is a highly anticipated match against title rivals LDF Ladies at Ratjomose on Sunday. Mothobi confirmed that he has a fully fit squad at his disposal and is confident that his players are ready for the encounter.
The match against LDF Ladies is expected to be one of the highlights of the weekend, with Mothobi's side looking to close the gap on the league leaders. Although winning this game will not guarantee them much, as the league has been extended to three rounds, Mothobi believes that his team is ready and that the players need to adjust and be mentally prepared. The WSL management recently changed the competition format from two rounds to three, giving teams more opportunities to compete against one another before the season concludes.
Mothobi's impressive start in the WSL has garnered attention, and his team's defensive record is particularly noteworthy. The team's success can be attributed to Mothobi's experience and coaching expertise, which he has applied to the women's team. As the league progresses, it will be interesting to see if Lijabatho Ladies can maintain their momentum and challenge for the top spot.
The Women's Super League has seen significant growth in recent years, with more teams competing and a new format that allows for more matches. Mothobi's involvement in the league is a positive development, and his success with Lijabatho Ladies could inspire other coaches to consider women's football. The league's extension to three rounds provides more opportunities for teams to compete and for players to showcase their skills.
As the season progresses, Lijabatho Ladies will face stiff competition from other teams, including title rivals LDF Ladies. Mothobi's team will need to maintain their form and adapt to the challenges ahead. With his experience and coaching expertise, Mothobi is confident that his team can compete at the highest level and challenge for the top spot in the Women Super League.
Key points
- Mothobi guides Lijabatho Ladies to five wins in five matches in the Women Super League.
- Lijabatho Ladies have yet to concede a goal in the league, scoring 12 goals in the process.
- Mothobi targets top spot in the league, having previously won the Premier League with Matlama in the 2021/22 season.
Reporting sources
- Mothobi making strides in women’s football · Lesotho Times website