Lesotho wrapped up their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a positive note, snatching a last-gasp 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe courtesy of Hlompho Kalake’s stunning stoppage-time strike on Monday evening.
The encounter, staged at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, held no bearing on qualification as both sides were already eliminated from contention.
Still, national pride fueled the Southern African derby, and Lesotho made sure to end their campaign with bragging rights.
Lesotho Secure Fourth, Zimbabwe End Winless
The result lifted Lesotho to fourth place in Group C, bringing an end to a disappointing qualifying run that also saw them miss out on a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
For Zimbabwe, the defeat capped a frustrating campaign, they finished bottom of the group without a single win to their name.
The Warriors will now shift focus to their preparations for AFCON 2025, hoping to redeem themselves on the continental stage.
Match Summary
Zimbabwe started on the front foot, dominating early possession. Their first real chance came in the eighth minute when Walter Musona’s effort forced a nervy moment from Lesotho goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane, who spilled the shot before recovering in time to smother the ball.
Lesotho began to find their rhythm midway through the first half. Around the 30-minute mark, Mphale Mphalaole tested Zimbabwe’s veteran goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze, whose quick reactions denied the visitors. The teams went into the break locked at 0-0.
After the restart, Zimbabwe looked more dangerous. Just after the hour mark, Bill Antonio appeared certain to score, but his shot, which beat Moerane, was heroically cleared off the line by Motlomelo Mkwanazi.
That missed opportunity came back to haunt them.
Deep into stoppage time, substitute Neo Mokhachane teed up Hlompho Kalake, who unleashed a breathtaking long-range strike past Chipezeze to hand Lesotho a dramatic and memorable victory.
