The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues as South Africa takes on Lesotho in a CAF World Cup Qualifier on Friday evening at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. Bafana Bafana will be eager to assert their dominance, while Lesotho seeks a historic upset. With qualification stakes high, expect an intense encounter between these neighbouring nations. Let’s look at the betting preview and prediction.
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Betting Preview
South Africa enters this clash as heavy favourites, given their superior squad depth, recent performances, and home advantage. Hugo Broos’ men have been solid defensively and efficient in attack, boasting an unbeaten home record in recent World Cup qualifying campaigns.
Lesotho, on the other hand, faces an uphill battle. Ranked 149th in the FIFA rankings, Likuena lacks the same pedigree as their opponents. However, under Veselin Jelusic, they have shown resilience, notably picking up five points from four games in the qualifiers so far.
4.15
South Africa vs Lesotho
2-0
Correct score
Odds are subject to change.
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Despite their underdog status, Lesotho will draw confidence from the unpredictability of World Cup qualifiers, where smaller nations have caused upsets in the past. Their approach will likely be defensive and disciplined, relying on quick counterattacks to trouble South Africa’s backline.
For Bafana Bafana, this game is a must-win. With crucial fixtures ahead, they cannot afford to drop points, especially against one of the lower-ranked teams in the group. Expect South Africa to control possession, push forward aggressively, and test Lesotho’s defensive structure early.
1.35
South Africa vs Lesotho
no
Both teams to score
Odds are subject to change.
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Recent Form & Stats
South Africa:
- Last 5 matches: D-W-W-D-W
- Goals scored: 10
- Goals conceded: 3
Lesotho:
- Last 5 matches: L-W-L-L-W
- Goals scored: 2
- Goals conceded: 10
Head-to-Head:
- Meetings: 12
- South Africa wins: 6
- Lesotho wins: 2
- Draws: 4
South Africa has dominated past encounters, but Lesotho has managed to hold them in recent meetings.
Best Bets & Predictions
Prediction: South Africa to win at 1.21.
Best Bet: South Africa – Handicap at 1.80.
Alternative Bet: South Africa to win to nil at 1.61.
