In a surprising turn of events, Lesotho has climbed to the top of Group C in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after a convincing 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe at Orlando Stadium on Friday.

Coach Leslie Notsi’s side controlled the match from the outset, securing a two-goal lead within the first half. Rethabile Rasethuntsa capitalized on a defensive lapse by Zimbabwe, tapping the ball in at the back post in the 21st minute. Ten minutes later, Thabo Thabantso doubled Lesotho’s advantage with a well-placed finish after sloppy defending from the Warriors.

Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe struggled to break through the resolute Lesotho defense. A header from Marshall Munetsi rattled the post in the second half, but it wasn’t enough to change the course of the match. This marked the second time Zimbabwe hit the woodwork throughout the game. Lesotho nearly added a third goal through Sera Motebang, but his attempt was comfortably saved by Zimbabwean goalkeeper Bernard Donovan.

This victory marks Lesotho’s first win in World Cup qualifiers since September 2013 against Sudan for the 2014’s World Cup qualifiers, and they’ll be aiming for a second consecutive victory when they host Rwanda at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday. Meanwhile, a wounded Zimbabwe will travel to Bloemfontein’s Toyota Stadium to face Bafana Bafana on the same day.