The South African Under-23 soccer team, Amaglug-glug, beat neighbours Lesotho 1-0 to qualify for the semifinals in the Sasol Under-23 Nations Tournament played at the George Thabe Stadium in Sharpeville on Wednesday.
Amaglug-glug led 1-0 at the break.
The all-important goal came in the 25th minute when a pinpoint cross from Gift Leremi found unmarked midfielder Daine Klate, who beat Lesotho goalkeeper Liteboho Mokhesi for his first goal of the tournament.
South African striker Stanton Lewis had a golden opportunity to put his side two ahead in the 35th minute when, with only Mokhesi to beat, he put the ball wide.
The hosts defended their lead with gusto in the second half by frustrating Lesotho’s strikers coupled with some outstanding saves from South African goalkeeper Wayne Sandiland.
Afterwards, Lesotho’s coach Motheo Mohapi lamented his side’s three losses in as many games.
His counterpart Steve Khompela, however, was happy with his charges’ seven points from three games and the qualification for the semis, to be played on Friday in Katlehong at Hunterfield Stadium. — Sapa