The first leg, played last night, ended in a goalless draw in a match that lacked real intensity, although both sides carved out a few half-chances.

Lesotho were the more dominant outfit, enjoying the lion’s share of possession and creating the better scoring opportunities. However, a lack of composure in front of goal proved costly, with several promising chances going begging.

The Welkom-born Tlotliso Phatsisi - Morgan Piek

At the other end, the Pirates’ defence stood firm, making life difficult for the Lesotho attackers and ensuring the deadlock remained intact.

With the tie finely poised at 0-0, Sunday’s return leg is a straight shootout - winner takes all - with a place in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group stage up for grabs.

Likuena coach Bob Mafoso told OFM Sport that patience on the ball will be crucial in the decider.

“We knew there were two sides to the game. On the one hand, we had to remember we were playing away from home and make sure we didn’t give them even half a chance,” said Mafoso.

“It was one of those matches where one or two decisions can make all the difference - maybe holding onto the ball a bit longer instead of releasing it too early. At times we rushed things.

“At the same time, we had to be very cautious of their counterattack. That’s what they were looking for - putting the ball into our defensive third and chasing it with real pace. They’ve got two or three quick players, so we had to stay alert.

“In the end, a draw away from home isn’t a bad result, but we do regret some of the decisions we made.”

Brandon Labrosse of Seychelles - Morgan Piek

Seychelles coach Vivian Bothe, in turn, told OFM Sport that his side remained competitive, although the long trip to Bloemfontein may have taken its toll.

“It wasn’t an easy game. In the first half we created two or three good chances to score, but we couldn’t convert,” said Bothe.

“Lesotho rushed things a bit, and we tried to use that, especially out wide, although our wingers couldn’t really get into the game.

Thabo Makhele for Lesotho - Morgan Piek

“In the second half, our players started to tire and Lesotho had more possession, so we had to fall back and defend. With the score still 0-0, they became frustrated and began playing more long balls from the back.

“We knew their strengths and planned accordingly, and in that sense it worked. But going forward, we’ll need to be more effective in attack.

“Our attacking play didn’t come off today, so in the next game we’ll look to be more aggressive going forward while still staying solid defensively.”

Sunday’s do-or-die second leg at Toyota Stadium kicks off at 19:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport