Africa-Press – Lesotho. South Africa have taken a major step toward securing a return to the FIFA World Cup after defeating Lesotho 3-0 in a Group C qualifier at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Friday evening.
The win keeps Bafana Bafana firmly at the top of the standings with a five-point lead, as Benin—who defeated Zimbabwe in a parallel fixture—remain their closest challengers.
Bafana suffered an early setback when Nyiko Mobbie picked up a head injury and was replaced by Zuko Mdunyelwa in the sixth minute. However, debutant Mohau Nkota calmed nerves with a composed finish in the 16th minute, latching onto Aubrey Modiba’s lofted cross for his first senior international goal.
The second half saw South Africa turn on the style. Lyle Foster doubled the advantage in the 63rd minute after capitalizing on a fumble by Lesotho goalkeeper Moerane. Just four minutes later, Foster turned provider, setting up Oswin Appollis who slotted home to make it 3-0 and seal the victory.
With this result, South Africa are now heavy favourites to clinch Group C’s automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will next host Nigeria in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 9 September, while Lesotho face Benin in Abidjan.
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