Bafana Bafana faces a crucial challenge as they welcome neighboring Lesotho for a FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 22, 2025. The match at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium is not just a test of skill but also a pivotal moment for the South African national team as they aim to build upon their current seven-point tally in the qualifiers and surpass Rwanda, who leads Group C on goal difference.
Head coach Hugo Broos has named his squad, marking the anticipated return of Percy Tau, a senior figure in the team whose experience will be crucial as Bafana looks to stamp their authority on this critical encounter. However, Broos has had to adjust his squad due to the unavailability of Aubrey Modiba and Patrick Maswanganyi. In their place, Ndamulelo Maphangule and Vuyo Letlapa have been called up to reinforce the side.
The significance of this match is underscored by the captain of Bafana Bafana, Ronwen Williams, who believes there has been a major paradigm shift within the squad under Broos’ guidance. “The stability, the continuation, the coach has found the right balance and structure, once there’s structure, there’s always room for success,” Williams stated, reflecting on how the team's spirit has transformed. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations bronze medalists have already secured their place in AFCON 2025 as group winners, positioning themselves well for a potential qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite their impressive form, analysts like Tebogo Moloi caution that facing Lesotho won’t be straightforward. Moloi, a well-respected figure in South African football, mentioned, “Lesotho has improved; they have good individual players, but what they lack is teamwork, and that's what I've been emphasizing to them.” He further noted that while South Africa should be favored to win, the players will need to be on guard. “This won't be a walkover for South Africa, but I believe we will get the three points,” he added, illustrating the competitive nature of the match.
The game will kick off at 18:00, and expectations are high for South Africa to secure all three points. The squad, which has showcased remarkable unity and determination in recent matches, aims to continue their winning streak. Williams highlighted the evolution of the team's spirit, noting how players are eager to join the national camp, remarking, “Now you see players, after a game on the first flight out, they can’t wait to get into camp again.”
On matchday, Bafana Bafana is anticipated to field a strong lineup combining experience and fresh energy to combat Lesotho. The excitement surrounding the match is palpable, and fans will be looking to see if the changes made by Broos and the reinvigorated camaraderie can yield a victory that strengthens South Africa’s bid for World Cup qualification.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the players and coaching staff remain focused on one goal: a dominant performance that not only secures essential points but also reflects the growth and potential of South African football under Broos’ stewardship.
In essence, this match presents an opportunity for Bafana Bafana to solidify their status as a team on the rise and to showcase the fruits of their labor, teamwork, and the brotherhood developed over the years. For the fiercely loyal supporters, this chance to cheer for their nation is one that carries immense significance, as they hope to see their team rise to the challenge ahead.
