Oswin Appollis, the Bafana Bafana winger, is gearing up for a fiercely contested encounter against Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C qualifier on Friday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane (6pm kick-off).
With national pride at stake, Appollis has highlighted the resilience and tenacity of the opposing team, acknowledging their unique challenges.
He expressed confidence in the preparation, but recognised the necessity for a focused approach to managing Lesotho’s relentless style of play.
“We know it’s going to be a very tough match. Lesotho is a hard-running team, with many fighters,” said Appollis.
“Our preparation has gone well. It will be a difficult game, but as South Africans, we are always ready to put in the effort, run hard, and fight for our team.
“The atmosphere in camp has been fantastic; the boys are geared up for Friday, and you can see the excitement.
“The coach always reminds us that everyone wants to beat South Africa, and opponents come out with everything they have. It won’t be an easy game, but we’ve prepared well, and with hard work, we can achieve a positive result.”
This encounter will be crucial for Bafana Bafana’s World Cup qualifying journey.
The players will aim to showcase their talents and strive for a place in the upcoming World Cup.
With Appollis leading the charge, fans can expect a thrilling match filled with passion and intensity in Polokwane.
As we wrap up another hard shift at the office in Polokwane.....#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/zSLRgtia4W
“Everywhere we have played in South Africa, the fans have attended the stadiums. I do not doubt that Polokwane fans will come in numbers to support us at Friday’s match,” said Appollis.
His comments serve as a rallying cry for his teammates, reminding them of the challenges that necessitate unwavering determination and strong teamwork.
The Polokwane City star played a significant role in helping Bafana Bafana qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals at the end of last year.
So, he would be aware that, against all odds, Lesotho have yet to lose an away game in Group C, having drawn in Nigeria and defeated Zimbabwe.
As the match approaches, Bafana Bafana are in a strong position in this stage of the qualifying tournament.
South Africa have secured seven points from four matches, and are tied at the top with Rwanda and Benin.
Oswin Appolis ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/fdYSz6ynzl
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) March 19, 2025
Bafana Bafana will travel to Ivory Coast on Sunday to meet Benin at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan on Tuesday (6pm SA time).
Victories against Lesotho and Benin will bring South Africa closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup to be played in Mexico, Canada and the United States.
To date, Bafana Bafana have participated in three World Cup finals – 1998, 2002, and as 2010 hosts – but have never progressed past the first round.
The 2026 World Cup, expanded from 32 to 48 teams, will feature at least nine African teams, with one more able to qualify via an intercontinental playoff.