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Coach Nkutlwisang draws positives after loss to Banyana Banyana

Apr 13, 2021

Botswana women’s senior national team coach, Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang said the 2-0 friendly loss to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana this afternoon at the Wits Stadium in Johannesburg played an important role in their preparations for the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers that start in June 2021.

Nkutlwisang also praised her players for putting up a gallant fight against Banyana Banyana, adding that this shows a progressive road to full fitness. The team played its first competitive game after a four-month hiatus of no football action but strenuously applied themselves against a bloodthirsty and dynamic, Banyana Banyana.

“In the first half we were alert of all the situations, we built from the back, shared good possession – this is good for confidence. We added new players to acclimatise to competition. In the second half, we had a concentration lapse and we got punished because when you give room to players like Thembi Kgatlana, they will punish you. She is a brilliant player. As the match progressed, I could see that my players were getting tired, our fitness level is not yet at par. We must give credit to Banyana Banyana for giving us such a competitive match, and we go home with assignment to rectify all our mistakes before we start the African qualifiers,” said Nkutlwisang on the touchline.

Meanwhile, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis said the friendly match came at the right time as it gave her players all the much-needed opportunities to test themselves. Furthermore, Eliis said she was happy to have her foreign-based players who have been out of action for a year at national team level.

“The foreign players really lifted the team; their experience was second to none. The dominating teams in Africa have more players in the European leagues. They were professional and executed themselves well. Although the league is about to start, it’s going to be tough to get to fitness, but we will cross the bridge when we get there,” said Ellis.

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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.