Matsoso wins new contract in US

MASERU-Lesotho international Napo Matsoso is set to remain at his United States club, Louisville City, beyond the 2021 season after agreeing to a new multi-year contract on Monday.

Matsoso had entered the final year of his deal but is now sure of continuing his career in the USL Championship, which is the second tier of professional football in the United States, for the foreseeable future.
Matsoso, who was called up to Likuena’s squad for international friendly games back in 2016, joined Louisville City in 2018 from the University of Kentucky.

The club’s head coach and sporting director, John Hackworth, was full of praise for the midfielder and said the club is happy to have him tied down to a new deal.
According to Louisville City’s website, Matsoso is coming off a “high-impact campaign” in which he switched mid-season from central midfield to a winger’s role.

Matsoso’s position change coincided with the start of Louisville City’s 13-game unbeaten streak which led them back to the USL Championship’s Eastern Conference Final.
“We are happy that Napo has agreed to this new deal that will keep him in purple for the foreseeable future,” Hackworth said.

“He is such a good professional and person. Napo’s character, mentality and energy epitomises the type of player that thrives in our environment. We look forward to Napo’s continued growth for years to come,” he said.
Matsoso started 11 games in 2020 for Louisville City and he ranked fourth on the team with three goals and two assists.

Each scoring contribution came once he moved to the wing.
Speaking on his new deal, Matsoso said he is happy to remain with the team and thanked the club’s coaching staff for giving him an opportunity to continue his career.

“I’m thankful for the LouCity organisation and coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to continue my career. I’m looking forward to another year with a great group of guys, and the 2021 season can’t come soon enough,” Matsoso said.
Matsoso enjoyed a decorated college career at Kentucky, netting 18 goals – eight of which were game winners – as well as registering 20 assists in 73 appearances.

In his final year at Kentucky, Matsoso received his third straight First-Team All-Conference USA honour and was named a Second Team All-American by coaches.
Louisville City assistant coach and technical director Danny Cruz said Matsoso’s development over the last few years has been a joy to watch.
“He is an extremely valuable player that was playing some of his best football prior to his injury last season,” Cruz said.

“We are happy that he has chosen to stay at Louisville City FC on a multi-year deal and look forward to his contributions as we push toward competing for more trophies.”

Tlalane Phahla