26 Sep 2022

The senior women national football team, the Mares, will play the Brave Gladiators of Namibia on Independence Day at the National Stadium.

The Mares won the hearts of many Batswana during this year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang, said in an interview that she was happy that the team had been granted an opportunity to spice up the country’s independence celebrations.

“We know the importance of winning the game and I want to urge Batswana to come in large number to see their stars in action,” she said.

The coach said, despite not calling foreign-based players, she was confident that they had assembled a strong team.

Some of the players called for camp are Lesego Radiakanyo, Masego Montsho, Balotlhanyi Johannes, Lone Gaofetoge, Nondi Mahlasela, Ontlametse Gaonyadiwe and Mitchell Abueng.

Nkutlwisang said she had mixed experienced players and young blood, revealing she had also called debutantes Kelebogile Magaga, Segakolodi Didukanyane, Keamogetse Maano, Jessica Modise and Pearl Sikwane.

“To be honest, all these players are hungry for success, therefore Namibia should expect a good game,” she said.

Magaga said in interview that she was happy to have been called to the senior national team for the first time

Given a chance, the Gaborone United said she would represent the country with pride, adding playing on home ground was motivation on its own, while donning national team colours on Independence Day would be a dream come true.

“I am not under any pressure. My aim will be to enjoy my game and cement my position in the national team,” she said.

Magaga said the game was not going to be easy, but with hard work, team work and determination, they would give Batswana a good Independence Day gift. Ends