Lesotho coach Leslie Notsi insists that Bafana Bafana have one of the best coaches around, whilst revealing what makes Hugo Broos' side a very tough opponent.
Lesotho will resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a clash against Bafana at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday, 21 March.
The side will then travel to play away against Rwanda just four days later to conclude matchday six of the qualifiers.
Their manager, Notsi, has admitted that he expects the two matches to be difficult ties, while he also revealed what has set Bafana apart in recent tournaments.
"We are expecting very, very tough encounters. We respect both countries. Bafana Bafana had great results at the last two AFCON in Ivory Coast, they did very well," Notsi said in an interview with CAFOnline.
"They've been very consistent. They have some really talented players in that team, and their team is mostly made up of players doing very well at their respective clubs and also in the CAF Champions League, as well as they have one of the best coaches around.
"That says a lot about what the team possesses, and we're expecting a tougher encounter in their own backyard. But at the same time, we're saying, 'Look, as a small footballing country, here's an opportunity to progress, to go in there, give it our all.' It's an opportunity for our boys to improve, to get that international exposure, which I believe they cherish."
When asked if his knowledge of South African football could be useful heading into the clash, Notsi explained: "Yes, it does give us something. We played them in January last year, just before they went for AFCON in Ivory Coast.
"We played to a goalless draw, and although, of course, it was a training match, the stakes were high because the pride of each country is always a factor when you are neighbours.
"There was a lot that we took out of the match. We always follow the players in their different teams. But it's always very tough to play against Bafana."
By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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