The national football team, Likuena, wrapped up their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a bittersweet note claiming a dramatic 1–0 victory over Zimbabwe, while collecting a historic 12 points, their best-ever tally in World Cup qualifying history despite their exit.
In a tense and hard-fought encounter, Likuena managed to hold off a determined Zimbabwean side, securing the crucial closing win to finish fourth in Group C with 12 points, a record haul that marked significant progress for the Mountain Kingdom, even as qualification remained out of reach.
The campaign saw them win three matches, draw three, and lose four, representing their most competitive World Cup qualifying run to date.
After a shaky start in Limpopo, South Africa, where Zimbabwe dominated possession and created multiple scoring opportunities, Likuena’s head coach, Leslie Notši, made key tactical adjustments at halftime that turned the tide.
“We did not start the first half well. Zimbabwe put us under pressure, and we gave them too much room,” Notši admitted.
“But we adjusted our tactics, attacked behind their defensive line, and it paid off. I am proud of the players for sticking to the plan.”
Lesotho’s resilience in defense proved decisive, as the backline stood firm against late Zimbabwean attacks, preserving the narrow lead and ensuring the campaign ended on a winning note.
Zimbabwe’s coach Michael Nees expressed disappointment after the match, citing missed chances and poor decision-making in front of goal.
“It is painful to lose in the dying minutes, especially after dominating large portions of the game. We created the chances but failed to convert them. Not having Knowledge Musona upfront definitely hurt us we lacked a finisher.” Nees said.
He added that the team was still rebuilding and would need better preparation and sharper attacking options ahead of their upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
Team captain Sekhoane Moerane praised his squad’s composure and effort, noting that they expected a fierce battle from Zimbabwe after their first-leg victory earlier in the campaign.
“We knew they would come hard. We beat them in the first leg, and revenge was on their minds. But credit to the boys, we stayed focused and stuck to our game plan. Thanks to our fans and the coaching staff for believing in us, even during tough times,” Moerane said.
Notši also reflected positively on the overall campaign, highlighting the development of key players and the team’s growing maturity, crucial factors in achieving the unprecedented 12-point total.
“There is plenty to build on. Some of our younger players gained confidence and showed they’re ready to step up.”
The record 12 points represent a significant leap forward for Lesotho football, surpassing all previous World Cup qualifying campaigns and suggesting the national team is on an upward trajectory despite missing out on the ultimate prize.
With a stronger foundation, growing confidence among the squad, and a record that proves they can compete at this level, Lesotho now turns its attention to future international fixtures, including preparations for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Summary
- The national football team, Likuena, wrapped up their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a bittersweet note claiming a dramatic 1–0 victory over Zimbabwe, while collecting a historic 12 points, their best-ever tally in World Cup qualifying history despite their exit.
- In a tense and hard-fought encounter, Likuena managed to hold off a determined Zimbabwean side, securing the crucial closing win to finish fourth in Group C with 12 points, a record haul that marked significant progress for the Mountain Kingdom, even as qualification remained out of reach.
- The record 12 points represent a significant leap forward for Lesotho football, surpassing all previous World Cup qualifying campaigns and suggesting the national team is on an upward trajectory despite missing out on the ultimate prize.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
