Bafana Bafana Set for Massive World Cup Qualifier Against Lesotho

South Africa resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign on Friday with a crucial Group C clash against Lesotho at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

The fixture carries high stakes for both sides. Bafana Bafana aim to return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, while Lesotho, nicknamed the Crocodiles, face a tough challenge to secure qualification. For the visitors, a victory against the group favourites is essential, but they must also outperform other teams in the pool to stay in contention.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos has emphasized the importance of the match. Several key players are unavailable due to injury or lack of match fitness, including Khuliso Mudau, Patrick Maswanganyi, Ime Okon, and Themba Zwane. Broos has called on younger talents like Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala to step up. The probable XI includes Williams, Mobbie, Modiba, Ngezana, Mbokazi, Aubaas, Mbatha, Foster, Mofokeng, Nkota, and Rayners.

Lesotho coach Leslie Notsi has named a 24-man squad that includes five players based in South Africa, adding experience to the team. Veteran midfielder Tsoarelo Bareng, Sekhoane Moerane, Fusi Matlabe, and former professionals Teboho Letsema and Katleho Makateng are also in the squad.

In terms of recent form, Bafana Bafana have recorded four wins, one draw, and one loss in six World Cup qualifiers. During the international break, they drew 0-0 with Tanzania and defeated Mozambique 2-0. Lesotho’s performances since March include one win and two losses in the COSAFA Cup.

The head-to-head record between the two nations shows two wins each and three draws across five meetings. Bafana Bafana claimed a 2-0 victory in their last encounter, though Lesotho has lodged a complaint regarding the eligibility of Teboho Mokoena, who played for South Africa in that match.

The Friday fixture is critical for Bafana Bafana to strengthen their position in Group C and keep their World Cup qualification hopes on track. Fans can watch the game live via SuperSport, SABC Sport, or stream it online through DStv.com, the DStv Now App, or FIFA+.