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Coach Nkutlwisang draws positives after loss to Banyana Banyana

Apr 13, 2021

Botswana women’s senior national team coach, Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang said the 2-0 friendly loss to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana this afternoon at the Wits Stadium in Johannesburg played an important role in their preparations for the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers that start in June 2021.

Nkutlwisang also praised her players for putting up a gallant fight against Banyana Banyana, adding that this shows a progressive road to full fitness. The team played its first competitive game after a four-month hiatus of no football action but strenuously applied themselves against a bloodthirsty and dynamic, Banyana Banyana.

“In the first half we were alert of all the situations, we built from the back, shared good possession – this is good for confidence. We added new players to acclimatise to competition. In the second half, we had a concentration lapse and we got punished because when you give room to players like Thembi Kgatlana, they will punish you. She is a brilliant player. As the match progressed, I could see that my players were getting tired, our fitness level is not yet at par. We must give credit to Banyana Banyana for giving us such a competitive match, and we go home with assignment to rectify all our mistakes before we start the African qualifiers,” said Nkutlwisang on the touchline.

Meanwhile, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis said the friendly match came at the right time as it gave her players all the much-needed opportunities to test themselves. Furthermore, Eliis said she was happy to have her foreign-based players who have been out of action for a year at national team level.

“The foreign players really lifted the team; their experience was second to none. The dominating teams in Africa have more players in the European leagues. They were professional and executed themselves well. Although the league is about to start, it’s going to be tough to get to fitness, but we will cross the bridge when we get there,” said Ellis.

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BFA Welcomes New Zebras Head Coach, Morena Ramoreboli

The Botswana Football Association (BFA) is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Morena Ramoreboli as the new Head Coach of the Zebras. This marks an exciting new chapter for Botswana football, as the men’s and women’s national teams recently achieved historic qualifications for the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025 – only the second time both teams have qualified in the same year.

Mr. Ramoreboli brings over a decade of top-level coaching experience and holds a CAF A license. His accomplishments include winning two Botswana Premier League titles and securing two CAF Champions League qualifications with Jwaneng Galaxy, achieving significant victories against teams like Orlando Pirates and Wydad Athletic Club. His familiarity with many of Botswana’s players from his time at the club level ensures a seamless transition into his new role.

The BFA has set clear targets for Mr. Ramoreboli, including progressing beyond the group stages at AFCON 2025, collecting at least 12 points in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, qualifying for CHAN 2026, and winning the 2025 COSAFA Senior Men’s Challenge. Additionally, improving Botswana’s FIFA ranking to the top 30 in Africa is a key objective.

To achieve these goals, the BFA is committed to providing the necessary resources and support for the Zebras. The Association also calls on all Batswana to rally behind Mr. Ramoreboli and the national teams. Fans are encouraged to attend matches and create an electrifying atmosphere during the World Cup qualifiers. Plans are underway to make travel packages available for supporters to cheer on the teams in Morocco for the Women’s AFCON and in December for the men’s AFCON.

The BFA also appeals to the media to play an active role in building excitement and uniting the nation behind the Zebras and Mares. A collaborative committee will be formed to drive fan engagement and ensure widespread support.

“We are confident that with Mr. Ramoreboli’s vision, experience, and leadership, the Zebras will achieve great success. With unity and the unwavering support of the nation, there is no limit to what we can accomplish,” said the BFA President.