Lesotho football is mourning the loss to two legends of the local game following the sad recent passing of Mahao ‘Bomber’ Matete and Lepolesa ‘Masterpieces’ Mefane.

Matete coached Lesotho for a number of years, including in the COSAFA Cup, and was also a star for Matlama FC, later coaching them too.

Matete led Lesotho in the inaugural COSAFA Cup in 1997, where they lost 2-0 to Zambia in Maseru. He was still in charge the following year when they lost by the same scoreline to Zimbabwe, and in 2000 when they went down to The Warriors as well.

He was also a stalwart defender for the national side in his playing days and a much-revered figure in Lesotho football. His brother Seephephe ‘Mochini’ Matete was also a national team coach in the COSAFA Cup and passed away late last year.

Mahao also had successful stints in charge of the Lesotho junior national teams, and coached his beloved Matlama FC too.

Mefane was a star for Matlama FC and also served the club in an advisory role following his playing days. He was 67 when he passed away.

The COSAFA family would like to express our sincere condolences on the passing of these two giants of Lesotho football.