'Got a draw in Uyo' – Lesotho coach highlights progress ahead of 'home match' v Bafana Bafana

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Lesotho coach Leslie Notsi has highlighted the steady progress of his side as they prepare to take on South Africa in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on Friday.

Notsi reflected on the strides made by the Crocodiles, pointing to their 1-1 draw against Nigeria in Uyo on the opening day of the qualifiers as evidence of their growth.

Semi Ajayi’s 67th minute header rescued a point for the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium after Motlomelo Mkwanazi had stunned the hosts with the opener, ensuring Lesotho earned a memorable result on Nigerian soil.

"At some stage in this group, there was a time when we were leading the group and people were saying Lesotho," Notsi told reporters.

"We knew the bigger brothers were coming but we embraced that moment, and going out to Uyo in Nigeria getting a draw, it was also a milestone.”

Lesotho, whose stadiums do not meet CAF and FIFA standards, have been forced to play their home matches in South Africa. 

Friday's clash at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, sees them designated as the home side, though they will be facing neighbours Bafana Bafana on South African soil.

Notsi also highlighted lessons learned from matches against stronger opposition, including a narrow loss to Morocco.

"There's work in progress so we learn from playing. After the game with Morocco, the coach asked for a meeting and was pleased with what we had done that day, that they were unable to score until the 93rd minute. It was a sign of growth within our team."

In the provisional Group C standings, Lesotho sit fifth with six points from six games. 

The Crocodiles are scheduled to meet the Super Eagles again on matchday nine next month.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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