15 Jun 2022

Botswana senior women national football team is in camp in Jwaneng as part of preparations for the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations AWCON).

Head coach, Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang, said in an interview that preparations for the tournament, scheduled for  Morocco July 2-23, were going well.

She was ecstatic that the foreign-based players; USA-based duo of Thuto Ramafifi and Esalenna Galekhutle; Zambia-based Mokgabo Thanda and South African-based Sedilame Boseja had joined The Mares, camp.

Nkutlwisang said they had planned two crucial camps in Orapa and Jwaneng where they met coaches of the elite clubs in that area, who also contributed in preparing the team.

“We shared our shortcomings with them and we tried to address them at the field. Our concentration was on the field, and so far I am happy we do not have severe injuries,” she said.

The coach said some of the national team players competed in the DTCB Women’s Football Top 8 Championship over the weekend, which gave them crucial game time.

“I am happy that the tournament displayed quality football and growth in women’s football. Even though it was hectic, we will help them ecover,” she said.

She said the technical team had done their assignment well and now what was left was for the players to do their bit.

The team captain, Bonang Otlhagile, said players were looking forward to making their maiden appearance at AWCON.

“We have been working very hard, therefore we must put up a good fight, for us to achieve,” she said. The captain said they were also drilled by the likes of Jwaneng Galaxy coach; Morena Ramoreboli and Orapa United’s Mogomotsi Mpote, who complemented what they had been doing.

The Mares, who are in Group C with Burundi, Nigeria and South Africa, will face fellow debutants Burundi on July 4, Nigeria on July 7 and Banyana Banyana of South Africa, three days later. ENDS