16 Dec 2021

 The national Under-20 women’s team is set to face Ethiopia in a return leg of the World Cup qualifier at Abebe Bekila Stadium in Ethiopia today.

Botswana lost 1-3 against a somewhat stubborn Ethiopian side in the first leg played at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown a fortnight ago.

In an interview, coach Tapaphiwa Gaebolae said she was confident that her side would reverse the 1-3 score owing to the commitment they showed and hunger for victory during the preparations for the encounter.

“Preparations have been going well and the players are determined to win despite trailing 1-3.

Ethiopia is a good and aggressive team, so we only need a good game plan to close their wings and deny them counter attacks,” Gaebolae said.

She regretted the absence of Captain Keitumetse ‘Ben 10’ Dithebe, who is on trials in France, adding, however, that she had roped in Jessica Modise from the Under17 team to attack in place of Dithebe while Rethabile Segobye would captain the team.

“The absence of Ben 10 is a big blow to us, but there is nothing we can do.

So it is up to other players to raise their hands and be counted.

I am happy though that Modise is gelling well with the team,” she said.

As motivation to her players, Gaebolae said she told them that if Ethiopia could score three goals, her side was equally capable to do the same and score more away goals.

“A plus to us is that we are now well aware of their style of play.

They are good at attacking and very mobile.

Our players are also better and more aggressive so with that, we should be able to match our opponents and even beat them in their own backyard,” she said.

Meanwhile, Botswana Football Association CEO, Goabaone Taylor has also wished the women well and encouraged them to do their best.

“We wish you success in Ethiopia and wish that you will make Batswana proud by qualifying for the World Cup.

You should not have the smallest doubt that, despite the distance, the entire nation will be by your side with enthusiasm, joy and with strong hope and conviction that you are giving your best in the name of Botswana,” said Taylor on the association’s Facebook Page.ENDS