Connect with us

News

Coach Nkutlwisang Beefs Up Squad

The Botswana Women senior national team coach, Gaoletlhoo Nkutlwisang has intensified her squad by calling to camp the experienced trio of Bonang Othagile, Nondi Matlhasela and Masego Montsho ahead of the much anticipated and fierce battle with neighbouring archrivals, Banyana Banyana of South Africa.

The friendly match which opens a calendar and series of camps ahead of the upcoming African Women’s Cup of Nations’ (AWCON) second round will start with an away and friendly encounter in Johannesburg’s Bidvest Wits Stadium on Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 against Desiree Ellis’ squad.

The three players were initially left out of ‘The Mares’ camp to allow coach Nkutlwisang to observe other players, mainly Under-20 players whom she wants to integrate in the senior team setup. The coach is confident on what the upcoming youngsters can offer and strongly believes the trio will add the much-needed experience and verve to the camp and her already raring squad.

“The camp has been going very well and I’m happy. Our players continue to work hard to achieve the much-needed fitness levels and balance that with all the technical tactics emanating from the coaches’ department,” said Nkutlwisang adding that, “Our national team is in a transition period and that’s why we have amalgamated the youthful players and the experienced force, respectively. We plan to achieve this before enduring the AWCON qualifiers. Generally, the technical team is happy with the progress of the young players, they are full of energy and have the zeal to represent the country and uphold our national pride. Let’s rally behind them”.

Othagile and Montsho reported to camp on Monday while Mathasela joined the team today (Wednesday). Meanwhile the team is expected to leave for South Africa this coming Sunday (April 11, 2021) and is expected back home on the 15th of April 2021 (Thursday).

Development

The Mares Display Heart In Tri Nations Challenge

Botswana’s senior women’s national football team recently concluded their campaign in the prestigious Three Nations Challenge, hosted by South Africa from 28 May to 3 June at the Lucas Moripe Stadium. The series saw spirited competition between Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia, as teams continued their preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.

 

Despite narrowly missing out on the top prize, Botswana showed immense character and growth throughout the tournament. The Mares kicked off their campaign with a thrilling encounter against the African champions South Africa, narrowly going down 3-2 in a tightly contested match. The team bounced back with a determined performance against Zambia, securing a 1-1 draw and demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline.

 

 

Final Tournament Results:

South Africa 3–2 Botswana

Botswana 1–1 Zambia

South Africa 2–0 Zambia

 

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana were ultimately crowned champions of the series, winning both of their matches to take the top spot. The tournament offered valuable game time and experience for all participating nations, and Botswana’s technical team, led by Head Coach Alex Malete, will take key insights from these fixtures as they refine the squad for the crucial WAFCON fianals.

Continue Reading

Trending