Morocco face Lesotho as they seek second AFCON qualifying win

Morocco will look to maintain their perfect start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Lesotho in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.

The Atlas Lions opened Group A with a 2-0 victory over Gabon and now have the chance to strengthen their position at the top of the group with another win.

Lesotho are looking for a response after beginning their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Niger. Although the match is officially a home fixture for Lesotho, it will be played in South Africa because their stadiums do not meet the required standards.

The game will take place at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

Morocco arrive in South Africa after a winning start against Gabon and will be aiming to build on that result. Another three points would further strengthen their position in Group A as the qualifying campaign continues.

Lesotho, meanwhile, face the task of recovering from their opening defeat. Playing in front of their designated home crowd but at a neutral venue in South Africa, they will be looking to produce a stronger performance and collect their first points of the campaign.

The Atlas Lions will not have a full squad available for the match, with Achraf Hakimi set to miss the game through suspension.

Nayef Aguerd is also unavailable, leaving Morocco without another important option as they prepare for their second qualifying fixture.

There is some positive news for the Moroccan side, however, as Ismaïl Saibari returns to the squad after completing his suspension.

Morocco’s opening victory over Gabon has put them in a strong position at the beginning of the qualifying campaign, while Lesotho must respond after their defeat by Niger.

The two sides now meet with different objectives. Morocco are seeking another victory to continue their winning start, while Lesotho need points to recover from their opening setback.

The match in Bloemfontein therefore represents an important opportunity for both teams as Group A begins to take shape.

Morocco will hope their opening victory can provide the foundation for another three points, while Lesotho will attempt to use the opportunity of their home fixture to get their campaign moving.

With kick-off set for 1pm GMT, the Atlas Lions will be aiming to leave South Africa with another win and keep their early momentum in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.