Lesotho ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a winning note after defeating Zimbabwe 1-0 on Monday night.
The match, held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa, appeared to be heading for a draw until Hlompho Kalake struck in the third minute of stoppage time to give the Crocodiles victory.
Kalake, who also scored in Lesotho’s 2-1 loss to Nigeria last week, curled a long-range shot past Zimbabwe goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze after a quick setup from substitute Neo Mokhachane.
The late winner secured Lesotho three points, but it was not enough to keep their qualification hopes alive. The team finished fourth in Group C with 12 points from 10 matches and a goal difference of -3.
Zimbabwe ended bottom of the group without a single win, wrapping up a poor campaign that saw them struggle for form throughout the qualifiers.
The Warriors started the match brightly and almost went ahead in the 8th minute when Walter Musona’s shot was fumbled by Lesotho goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane before he managed to recover.
Lesotho grew stronger as the game progressed, with Mphale Mphalaole testing Chipezeze in the first half. Both sides went into the break goalless.
After halftime, Zimbabwe came close to scoring when Bill Antonio’s effort beat the Lesotho keeper but was cleared off the line by Motlomelo Mkwanazi. That missed chance proved costly, as Lesotho stole the win in the dying minutes.
Lesotho coach Leslie Notsi praised his team’s determination after the match, saying, “It was a tough campaign, but the boys gave their all till the end. We wanted to finish strong, and I’m proud of them.”
In Group C, Benin Republic lead with 17 points, South Africa follow with 15, and Nigeria sit third with 14 points. All three sides have one game left to play.
