Mafoso: "The Crocodiles" respect "The Lions"

Lesotho national team coach Bob Mafoso stated that the match scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, in Bloemfontein, between his team and Morocco, in the second round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, "will be an opportunity for us to enhance our performance."

Mafoso expressed during a press conference before this encounter, "We do not face a strong team like Morocco frequently, so this is an opportunity for us to develop and continue the path we started in recent years."

He spoke about previous encounters between the two teams, praising the Moroccan team's great capabilities and outstanding performance, both at the continental level and in the last two World Cup editions.

He added that "facing Morocco represents an opportunity for us to measure our abilities against a great team and make the necessary adjustments to improve our level."

He also confirmed that preparations for this match began more than two weeks ago, considering the challenge it represents, pointing out that "the most important thing now is to know how to manage this important match."

For his part, Lesotho captain (the Crocodiles) Sikhwindi Morani indicated that his teammates are "very excited" to play against Morocco, affirming that they will give their best during this encounter.

After the first round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Morocco tops Group A with three points and a goal difference of +2, ahead of Niger, which has the same points but a goal difference of +1.

Lesotho, which lost to Niger 1-0 last Friday, sits at the bottom of the group without any points alongside Gabon.

In the second round, Morocco will face Lesotho tomorrow, Tuesday, in Bloemfontein, starting at 3 PM local time (1 PM GMT), at the "Free State Toyota" Stadium.