04 Jul 2024

 The name Matshidiso ‘Sexton’ Kowa is synonymous with the history of Botswana football. 

During his heydays of his illustrious career, Bra Tshidi, as he was also known, graced the pitch for Mochudi Centre Chiefs and the national football team, bringing pride and glory to the country in every game he played. 

Back in the 70s, when the elite league was called the Super League, Bra Tshidi was a vital part of the Botswana XI (now the Zebras) as a goalkeeper, guarding the goalposts with the same fearless and determination he was known for at his club career. 

His presence on the field, according to former FRAFA chairperson, Fanyana Fish, was a sight to behold, evoking awe and admiration from fans and fellow players alike.

“When I think of Botswana’s football legends, the name Tshidi is not strange to me,” he said.

He said such a formidable goalkeeper who brought his trademark tenacity and skill to the pitch for his country, leading the team to numerous triumphs. 

He said he met Bra Tshidi for the first time when Notwane FC was playing against Mochudi Centre Chiefs, where he was a goalkeeper.

He said while Kowa’s impressive goalkeeping skills put fear in the hearts of strikers, there was one player who gave him sleepless nights; Willie ‘Pay Master’ Denson, another formidable force in Botswana’s football scene and a bane of Tshidi’ existence. 

“Though Bra Tshidi commanded respect and admiration from fans and opponents alike, the mere mention of Denson’s name will send shiver down his spine. It was a fierce rivalry made for explosive games as Bra Tshidi valiantly stood the ground against Denson’s attacking prowess,” said Fish. 

A former player under Bra Tshidi’s tutelage, Carlos Sebina, fondly reminisces about his experience under the late legend’s mentorship.

“I met Bra Tshidi between 1996-1997 when I was playing for Sowa Flamingoes and he was my coach by then. 

Sebina said Kowa was like a father figure to him and rest of players alike. 

“He was more than just a coach,” he said, adding that he cared about their development as young players, both on and off the field.

He said under his guidance, Sowa Flamingoes was a force to reckon with in the league. 

“Our victories and achievements under Bra Tshidi’s leadership are etched in our memories, but more than that, it was the lessons he taught us about teamwork, resilience and dedication that stayed with us long after we left the pitch,” said Sebina.

He said by then, football was like an academy and Bra Tshidi was a true mentor whom Sowa Flamingoes was fortunate to have during those days. 

“Indeed the name Sexton was a powerhouse on the field, dazzling audiences with his incredible skills and dedication to the sport,” said Sebina.

He said though everyone understood that he was no longer with us, his loss must be felt deeply by his family, friends and fans alike. 

Bra Tshidi will be buried in Moshupa on Saturday. Ends