South Africa Brush Aside Lesotho in 3–0 World Cup Qualifier Win

South Africa continued their impressive run in the CAF Group C World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 3–0 victory over Lesotho in Maseru on Friday, September 5, 2025.

Match Recap

Bafana Bafana looked sharp from the opening whistle, and Mohau Nkota set the tone with an early strike in the first half. After the break, Lyle Foster doubled the advantage with a clinical finish, before Oswin Appollis put the result beyond doubt just minutes later.

Despite some promising moments, Lesotho failed to convert their chances—most notably through Sera Motebang, who came close to pulling one back.

Group C Standings Impact

The win strengthens South Africa’s grip on top spot in Group C with 13 points, ahead of Rwanda and Benin, who sit on 8 points each. Nigeria follow closely with 7, while Lesotho remain on 6 points, just above Zimbabwe at the bottom with 4.

Current Group C Table:
1️⃣ South Africa – 13 pts
2️⃣ Rwanda – 8 pts
3️⃣ Benin – 8 pts
4️⃣ Nigeria – 7 pts
5️⃣ Lesotho – 6 pts
6️⃣ Zimbabwe – 4 pts

Controversy Still Lingers

However, the group standings remain under scrutiny. Earlier this year, South Africa fielded Teboho Mokoena in their March match against Lesotho, despite the midfielder being suspended due to yellow card accumulation. According to FIFA rules, such an infraction should result in a 3–0 forfeit defeat.

Surprisingly, Lesotho did not file an official complaint, and FIFA has yet to issue a ruling—leaving the group’s integrity in question. If sanctions are applied, the points swing could dramatically reshape qualification prospects.

What This Means for Lesotho

Lesotho’s defeat leaves them with a mountain to climb in pursuit of qualification.

At 6 points, they remain in the mix for a playoff spot, but they must start converting performances into wins.

Their hopes may also hinge on whether FIFA takes action on the Mokoena eligibility case.

Looking Ahead

South Africa look poised to book a place in the next round, while Lesotho face a do-or-die scenario in their remaining fixtures. For now, all eyes are not only on the pitch but also on FIFA’s disciplinary desk.

📌 Key Takeaway: South Africa may be cruising, but the unresolved eligibility issue could still reshape Group C’s destiny.

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✍️ Zorama Peter Paul