The country's senior national side, Likuena, is desperate for international friendly games as part of preparations for the Council of Southern Africa Football Association (COSAFA) Castle Cup beginning in Lusaka, Zambia on June 11.

Likuena entertains Malawi in the opening match of a double header where the host nation Zambia will clash against Swaziland in the second game of the day. The winners meet on the following day to decide which team will advance to the semifinal stage of the tournament in August this year.

In an interview, assistant coach Motheo 'Six to Six' Mohapi said they are looking for any team  prepared to play them prior to their leaving for Zambia. This follows the withdrawal of Botswana from a practice match that was to have been played in Gaborone on May 18.

They hope to find other opponents soon for final preparations that will help them select the18 players to face the Malawian 'Flames'.

As part of their preparations, Likuena played to a goalless draw against South African premiership side Bloemfontein Celtic on May 12 at Seisa Ramabodu stadium.

Likuena have since last year, played only three international friendly games: against Botswana; a German Institutions invitation side and; Namibia. They drew 1-1, lost 0-2 and 1-2 respectively under German coach Tony Hey.

The local side also played training matches against South African premiership side Manning Rangers losing 2-1.

16 May 2005