The wider picture
Seychelles is aiming to qualify for the AFCON finals for the first time in their history. In a recent match held at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on March 26, 2026, Seychelles faced Lesotho in a TotalEnergies CAF AFCON PAMOJA 2027 qualifier. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, reflecting the competitive spirit of both teams as they strive for success in the tournament.
This fixture marked a significant moment for Seychelles, as they introduced several new players to their squad, including Jeremy Nourrice, Kelvin Cupidon, Brandon Fanchette, and Chris Uranie. Their inclusion indicates a strategic shift as Seychelles looks to bolster its chances of qualifying for the prestigious tournament.
Notably, Seychelles managed to keep a clean sheet in this competitive fixture, a feat they had not achieved since their last encounter with Lesotho in 2022. This defensive performance may serve as a confidence booster for the team as they prepare for future matches.
Following the match, Ian Ah-Kong, the coach of Seychelles, expressed determination, stating, “We’ll give everything we’ve prepared and go all out to win the game.” His comments reflect the team’s commitment to improving their performance and securing a place in the upcoming AFCON finals.
On the other hand, Lesotho’s coach, Bob Mafoso, emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences, saying, “We need to use our past experiences to become a better team.” This sentiment highlights the ongoing development of the Lesotho squad as they seek to enhance their competitive edge in international football.
The two teams are set to meet again at the same venue on March 29, 2026, in what promises to be another exciting encounter. As the matches progress, both Seychelles and Lesotho will be looking to capitalize on their experiences and improve their standings in the Preliminary Round for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027.
Looking ahead, the continental finals will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in 2027, creating a significant opportunity for teams across Africa to showcase their talents. The ongoing qualifiers will be crucial for teams like Seychelles and Lesotho as they aim to secure their spots in this prestigious tournament.
