11 Jun 2024

Following  a 1-0 defeat to Uganda, senior national football team, the Zebras redeemed their pride by beating the Ocean Stars of Somalia 3-1 in a Group G World Cup qualifying clash played in Mozambique on Monday.  Zebras goals were netted by Thabang Sesinyi, Mosha Gaolaolwe, and a penalty by Kabelo Seakanyeng, while the Ocean Stars’ was an own goal by Zebras captain Thatayaone Ditlhokwe.

The result means the Zebras after playing four games, are now in position three, while Algeria and Mozambique occupy first and second positions. A win for the Zebras has kept alive the nation’s hopes of reaching 2026 World Cup. 

Zebras head coach, Didier Gomes da Rosa said he was happy with the players’ performance given that they executed the game plan properly. “The plan was to press the opponents with three attackers; Thabang Sesinyi, Oarabile Sekwai and Kabelo Seakanyeng, with the support of Olebogeng Ramotse and Gape Mohutsiwa, and to also control the Somalia midfielders,” he said.

He said their first goal breathed life into the team, as they surged forward looking for more goals something that he said put Somalia under pressure.

Da Rosa said approaching the game they did not undermine Somalia side given that it played well against Algeria and Mozambique.

He said their next game would be against Algeria next year in March.  He said it was important for the team to be ambitious if they want to keep their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

The coach said since other games would be played next year, the focus now would shift to AFCON Qualifiers, adding that they awaited the draw to know their group competitors. 

For now he said he would like to organise two training camps to prepare for the competitions. ENDS