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The Zebras’ AFCON 2025 Opponents Revealed

Jan 28, 2025

The wait is finally over as on January 27, 2025, the eagerly-awaited Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 took place in Rabat, with the 24 competing teams discovering their groupings.

Botswana will face three formidable opponents, Senegal, a true powerhouse in African football; will be one of the top contenders in Group D. The reigning champions of the 2021 AFCON, enters this year’s tournament as a major threat, with a recent history of success. Their current world ranking of 17 and a strong CAF standing at number 2 further highlight their prominence on the continental stage

The Democratic Republic of Congo, with a rich AFCON history, boasts two championships in 1968 and 1974. Although their world ranking currently stands at 61, they remain a respected force in African football. With 21 appearances in the AFCON, DR Congo is a team that always has the potential to surprise, and their strong CAF ranking of 11 underscores their competitive stature.

Benin, making their fifth appearance in the AFCON, is a team on the rise. Having made it to the quarter-finals in 2019, Benin has proven that they can be tough opponents on the continental stage. Although their world ranking is currently at 94, and their CAF ranking stands at 21, the team’s growing strength and recent success show that they can challenge the bigger teams.

With a diverse and experienced set of competitors in Group D, the Zebras, despite their limited AFCON experience — having only participated in the group stages in 2012—are determined to show their growth and potential. With a current world ranking of 136 and a CAF ranking of 43, Botswana is ready to take on their more established opponents and make a strong impression at the AFCON in Morocco.

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MS. TSHOLOFELO 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.