Lesotho square off against Bafana Bafana on Friday in a crucial African World Cup qualifier, tipping off at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. While Bafana Bafana await the verdict from FIFA over a player eligibility controversy, they remain poised to take on Lesotho in a must-win encounter that could shape the Group C qualification dynamics. With the group leader under scrutiny, Lesotho have a rare opportunity to strike, making this more than just a routine fixture. Below is the betting preview and prediction for this encounter.
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Betting Preview
Lesotho come into Friday’s clash winless in their last three qualifiers, with two defeats and a draw denting their World Cup hopes. Still, they remain within touching distance of second-placed Rwanda, meaning a playoff spot is not yet out of reach.
3.50
Lesotho vs SOuth Africa
yes
Both teams to score
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
Playing their “home” fixtures in South Africa makes the task even tougher, but Leslie Notsie’s squad has been bolstered by the likes of former SA U23 defender Thabo Makhele and goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane, who has impressed for Orbit College. Tlotliso Phatsisi and Fusi Matlabe also add depth to the squad.
South Africa, meanwhile, sit comfortably at the top of Group C with 13 points from six matches. Hugo Broos has made a couple of enforced changes, with Sipho Mbule replacing the injured Patrick Maswanganyi and Thabo Moloisane stepping in for Hannover’s Ime Okon.
1.26
Lesotho vs South Africa
no
Both team to score
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
Despite a COSAFA Cup campaign that exposed Lesotho’s frailties, Bafana Bafana arrive in strong form with three straight qualifying wins. Although FIFA’s investigation into their previous fixture against Lesotho still lingers, history is on South Africa’s side, they’ve beaten the Crocodiles three times in a row without conceding. On paper, another three points looks well within reach.
Recent Form & Stats
- Bafana won their only meeting this season 2-0, though that result remains under FIFA review.
- South Africa top Group C with 13 points. Lesotho, on six points, have two wins, three draws, and two losses.
- In their last 13 matches across competitions, South Africa and Lesotho have each recorded four wins, with five draws.
Best Bets & Predictions
Prediction: South Africa to win at 1.27.
Best Bet: South Africa to win & under 2.5 total goals at 2.15.
Alternative Bet: Under 2.5 total goals at 1.55.
