The revitalised local national under 20 side, Makoanyane XI, will resume training at Bambatha Ts'ita Sports arena on Monday.

Makoanyane XI was hastily assembled for two days on September 26 to honour friendly international against South African counterparts on September 28 and managed to hold their opponents to a goalless draw.

In an interview, the team's Manager, Mr. Ts'iu Monne said the team will now resume training for three days from Mondays to Wednesdays in preparations for the Council of Southern Africa Football Association (COSAFA) Metropolitan sponsored tournament to be staged in Mpumalanga Province in South Africa in December.

Mr. Monne said a provisional squad of 30 players, 13 of which are from Maseru districts, six hails from Leribe and one each from Mohale's Hoek and Quthing districts will train until the team leaves for South Africa on November 29.

He said that most of the players have been drawn from under 17 national team ‘Bahlabani’ and that head coach is still, Mr. Lehlohonolo Thotanyana, who will be assisted by Lesotho Correctional Service (LSC) coach, Mr. Katiso Moja-khomo.

He however, said the coaches will work with the 30 players, but will have to trim them down to 20 as the number required for the tournament.

Mr. Monne said, their plan is to play at least two international friendly games against Bloemfontein Celtic and Free State Stars as part of preparations and that they will also play local premiership sides as they try to juggle the players around to give them a chance to showcase their talents.

The COSAFA cup under 20 tournament is an annual event contested by 13 nations from Southern Africa and it is aimed at promoting football at youth stage.

Source: LENA 09/10/2007