The Crocodiles of Lesotho held the Panthers of Gabon in check this Friday, October 11, at the Rénovation stadium in Franceville, securing a valuable draw (0-0) which allows them to score their first point in these CAN 2025 qualifiers.
After two consecutive defeats, against the Central African Republic (1-2) and Morocco (0-1), the team led by Leslie Notsi showed a more solid and resilient face. This result brings relief to the Lesotho players, who now approach the second leg in Durban, South Africa, with more confidence, this Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
On the Gabonese side, this draw slows down the ambitions of the Panthers, who were counting on this meeting to consolidate their position in the group. While waiting for the clash between Morocco and the Central African Republic this Saturday, October 12, Gabon remains provisionally second in group B with 4 points, while Lesotho, still last, collects its first point.
The return leg promises to be decisive for both teams. The Gabonese will have to look for victory to stay in the running in the race to qualify for the TotalEnergies Morocco Africa Cup of Nations 2025, while Lesotho will try to confirm their progress.
Gabonese supporters are expecting a boost from their team, particularly in the face of the absence of executives like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, hoping that coach Thierry Mouyouma will be able to adjust his strategy to reverse the trend. The pressure is now on the Panthers who must get back on track.
The next days of the qualifiers will be crucial, with a major stake for Gabon, currently looking for stability and results in this group B where every point counts to ensure direct qualification.
