News

Botswana Women’s Senior National team doctor gives an update on injuries

Apr 12, 2021

The Botswana women’s senior national team doctor, Dr. Merero Ntshese this afternoon shared a medical update of the squad after their training session today at Wits Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, where they are preparing to face Banyana Banyana in an international friendly slated for tomorrow (Tuesday) at 1500hrs.

The team trained for the first time today (Monday) since arriving in South Africa last night (Sunday), and the doctor assured the technical team that all players are eligible to play despite three players having niggling injuries.

“All the players are eligible to play, we have managed these minor knocks overtime. They had minor injuries and they have all been undergoing rehabilitation. This is mainly due to prolong inactivity and low fitness levels but with time I expect injury rates to reduce,” said Dr. Ntshese.

Players in training at Wits Stadium

According to Dr. Ntshese the players with knocks are;

Masego Mfandiso

She had a hamstring strain grade 1. She went through rehabilitation during camp and she’s is now eligible to play.

Segakolodi Didukanyane

She sustained an ankle sprain grade1 and also went through rehabilitation. The swelling has since subsided, and she is able to bear weight, and doing exceptionally well with regards to return to play protocol.

BFA acting Technical Advisor Dr Carolin Braun during light training with the players

Keitumetse Dithebe

She suffered an ankle sprain grade 1, and she went through rehabilitation too. The swelling has since subsided, and she is able to bear weight and she’s also doing exceptionally well with regards to return to play protocol.

Bonang Otlhagile

The captain will not play any part of tomorrow’s action. She recently recovered from COVID-19 and she is on post recovery phase that requires rest as per the return to play protocol. She is awaiting investigations to rule out complications that she might have sustained as a result of COVID-19. The investigations are part of the Pre-Competition Medical Assessment of which is a requirement of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

BFA acting TD Dr. Carolin Braun and Coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang

The rest of squad, according to the team doctor is fully fit, charged up and ready to conquer Banyana Banyana tomorrow.

Players in training at Wits Stadium
BFA acting TD Dr. Carolin Braun and Coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang

Up Next

BFA CEO attends GS Academy Programme

Don't Miss

Women’s Senior Team off to South Africa

News

Setlhoko Appointed as FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert

FIFA has announced the appointment of Ms. Tsholofelo Setlhoko as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, joining a global network of qualified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of women’s football worldwide. This prestigious appointment recognizes Ms. Setlhoko’s exceptional contributions to the sport and her commitment to advancing women’s football across Botswana and beyond.

Launched in 2020, the FIFA Women’s Football Development Programmes have been instrumental in strengthening women’s football through targeted support for Member Associations. With the recent relaunch of the programme in December 2024, FIFA aims to expand its impact across all 211 Member Associations, offering tailored assistance that reflects the unique contexts and needs of each nation.

In her role as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, Ms. Setlhoko will leverage her vast experience in football administration, strategic planning, and grassroots development to support Member Associations in implementing sustainable growth strategies. Her leadership within the Botswana Football Association (BFA), particularly in spearheading initiatives for women’s football, has set a benchmark for development and community engagement.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert. This is not only a personal achievement but a victory for women’s football in Botswana. I look forward to sharing best practices and supporting the growth of women’s football in other Member Associations,” said Ms. Setlhoko.

The President of the Botswana Football Association, Mr. Tariq Babitseng, also expressed his pride in Ms. Setlhoko’s achievement, stating, “Tsholofelo’s appointment is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her expertise and passion for women’s football are unmatched, and we are confident that she will make a substantial impact globally.”

Ms. Setlhoko’s appointment marks a significant step forward in the representation of African women in global football development. As she embarks on this journey, she remains committed to championing women’s football and inspiring the next generation of female athletes and administrators.