South Africa will look to maintain their momentum in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they face Lesotho at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday, 21 March 2025.
The crucial Group C encounter sees Bafana Bafana return to home soil with hopes of collecting three vital points that would strengthen their position at the top of the group.
Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00 (SA Time) in what promises to be a tightly contested Southern African derby.
After returning from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a bronze medal — their first in over two decades — Hugo Broos’ charges have shown steady form in the qualifiers, winning two of their opening four matches, drawing one, and suffering a single defeat.
A win over Lesotho would push South Africa to 10 points, taking them a step closer to securing a historic place at the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America.
Injury Concerns and Squad Updates
South Africa’s build-up to the clash hasn’t been without disruptions. Left-back Aubrey Modiba withdrew from the squad due to personal reasons, while forward Patrick Maswanganyi missed out through injury.
Their absences have opened the door for fresh faces. Defender Vuyo Letlapa and midfielder Ndamulelo Maphangule were drafted into the squad and could make their first international appearances under Broos.
Bafana Bafana will, however, be buoyed by the return of influential forward Percy Tau and midfielder Jayden Adams, both of whom are expected to play key roles in the tie.
The core of the side remains intact, with Ronwen Williams set to captain the team from goal, supported by defensive regulars Grant Kekana and Thapelo Mudau. In attack, the dynamic Lyle Foster is likely to spearhead the frontline, with Iqraam Rayners and Elias Mokwana offering support.
Lesotho Look to Upset the Odds
Lesotho, under the guidance of coach Leslie Notsi, will be aiming to cause an upset in Polokwane. Nicknamed Likuena (The Crocodiles), Lesotho remain outsiders in the group but have shown improvement in recent outings.
They will need to deliver a near-perfect performance to unsettle a confident South African side playing in front of a home crowd.
Match Details
- Fixture: South Africa vs Lesotho
- Date: Friday, 21 March 2025
- Kick-off Time: 18:00 (SA Time)
- Venue: New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane
How to Watch
South African viewers can catch the action live on SABC 3 or stream it online via the DStv Now app or DStv.com. Alternatively, fans can follow live updates through trusted sports platforms and social media channels.
Predicted South Africa XI
Williams; Mudau, Kekana, Ngezana, Basadien; Mokoena, Mbatha, Appollis; Mokwana, Foster, Rayners
With the group standings finely balanced, victory for Bafana Bafana would be a major boost to their 2026 qualification hopes. Anything less could open the door for rivals in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive qualifying campaigns in the CAF zone.
