Lesotho edge Central African Republic in Group B, Gabon qualify

Lesotho claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) in their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday that helped Gabon to qualify for next year's competition to be held in Morocco.

The Crocodiles hosted the Wild Beasts at the Free State Toyota Stadium, where the solitary goal decided the outcome of the Group B match.

Neo Mokhachane netted in the 51st minute, converting a close-range opportunity to seal the victory for Lesotho.

in Group B, Morocco tops the standings with a perfect record, while Gabon follows with seven points. Lesotho’s win places them third, leaving CAR at the bottom with three points.

Gabon are assured of a top-two finish in Group B as their closest rivals Lesotho, on four points, cannot overtake them even though they have one match remaining.

Lesotho could finish level on seven points with Gabon, but would lose out on the head-to-head rule having been beaten by the Panthers and the other match ending in a draw. 

The game saw both sides struggling to create clear chances in a match filled with physical duels.

Lesotho’s defense remained solid, holding off CAR's attacking efforts.

Louis Mafouta came close for CAR, hitting the post with a header in the 73rd minute, but luck was not on their side.

Lesotho’s win lifts them to third in Group B, overtaking CAR even though their chances of qualifying has ended.  

CAR, however, finds themselves rooted at the bottom, with Morocco and Gabon leading the group.