Why Lesotho’s 20-goal striker missed Richards Bay’s first 2022/23 fixture
Lesotho’s 20-goal striker Katleho Makateng could make his much-awaited debut for Richards Bay when they take on Marumo Gallants in their second fixture of the 2022/23 DStv Premiership, writes Tlalane Phahla.
Makateng missed the opening tie against Golden Arrows, which they won 2-0 because the club had not received his international clearance.
Reports were that he was still without International Transfer Certificate (ITC), but the Lesotho Football Association (LEFA) has since confirmed it was issued on Friday.
Makateng, whose move has been viewed through positive lenses in Lesotho, won the hearts of the local fans last season when he made his debut for the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) and the national team.
His goals against Mauritius in the preliminary qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations earned him high praises. However, it’s not just his scoring prowess that saw him become the darling amongst the fans. It’s his overall play.
The 23-year-old military officer is a traditional number nine who likes to get involved in the build-up of attacks. Despite his small frame, he thrives in holding off defenders to set up his teammates.
Last season, he scored 20 goals and finished as the top scorer. He was the biggest winner at the end-of-season awards ceremony, walking away with the Young Player, Player’s Player and Player of the Season accolades,
His fine performances at the COSAFA tournament earned him a move to the DStv Premiership. LDF have previously revealed that they were bombarded with calls from clubs inquiring about his availability.
South African giants Kaizer Chiefs did register interest, but it was only telephonic, and there was no follow-up. Richards Bay is the only team that formalised its interest with an offer that the player and the club accepted.
With so many players leaving the country but failing to make the grade in the PSL, Makateng has become the country’s hope that he can finally breakthrough and succeed where many have failed.
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