The build-up to the clash was dominated by off-field white noise around midfielder Teboho Mokoena. South Africa were not distracted in their quest to bag three points as they continue their mission to return to the World Cup for the first time in 16 years.

Lesotho had warned Bafana not to field Mokoena, who they argued was meant to serve a suspension following the 2-0 victory in Polokwane back in March. But coach Hugo Broos included the Bethlehem-born midfielder in his starting XI, and he played a key role in the win — even testing the keeper twice with attempts on goal.

Oswin Appollis. Photo: Morgan Piek

After a nervy start, Broos’ charges settled down and opened the scoring through Mohau Nkota in the 15th minute. They held onto the 1-0 lead going into the break.

Although technically listed as the away team, Bafana shifted gears in the second half and doubled their lead in the 62nd minute through Burnley striker Lyle Foster. Just four minutes later, Oswin Appollis capped off a lively performance on the left-wing by netting South Africa’s third.

The result was dampened slightly by injuries to Nyiko Mobbie of Siwelele FC, who was carted off after only five minutes, and Thabo Moloisane, who was forced off early in the second half. Mobbie's replacement will be named on Saturday.

Speaking after the match, Broos admitted he felt relieved following the win, revealing the events of the past week had left him unsettled.

“After everything that happened, it was a nervous game. It wasn’t easy. I saw a very motivated Lesotho, but we did well.” 

Lyle Foster. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We created chances, we scored, we dominated. The only thing we needed to do was stay organised and avoid silly mistakes, and that’s exactly what we did.

“Lesotho tried to play long balls for 90 minutes, hoping we’d slip up, but we didn’t allow it. We deserved this win. Once again, it shows that games are won on the pitch, not off it.

“I must be honest – the past few days, I had a bad feeling. I won’t go into detail, but what happened wasn’t normal. That’s why this result was so important.”

Nyiko Mobbie. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Now we look ahead to Nigeria. If God is with us, maybe we can qualify already on Tuesday. That’s our goal. We’re in a good position, and it’s in our hands now to finish the job.”

Bafana Bafana remain top of Group C with a five-point lead after Benin beat Zimbabwe 1-0 earlier in the day to move into second place with eleven points.

Next up, Bafana host the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the Toyota Stadium on Tuesday at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg