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Diamond Zebras dare to Dream

Jul 19, 2018

The 2018 COSAFA Under-17 Championships get underway on Thursday as Mauritius plays host to the vital junior competition for the third year in a row. This year’s regional tournament has added significance as it serves as a qualifier for the 2019 African Under-17 Championships, which in turn will supply the continent’s four representatives at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Peru next year. So the COSAFA event, which runs from July 19-29, will be the beginning of the road to the global showpiece for the 12 competing teams from the region, who all have set their sights on winning a place on the big stage.

The competition will be played at two venues in Mauritius, the St. François Xavier Stadium in Port Louis and Stade Anjalay in Belle Vue. There will be three matches on an opening day on Thursday, all in Port Louis, starting with a Group A clash between 2016 winners Namibia and Seychelles at 10h00 (06h00 GMT). Namibia returns after missing last year’s competition having surprised many to take the title two years’ ago, and will be fierce competitors once more under coach Paul Malembu.

The current holders Zambia will open their 2018 campaign with a tricky Group B tie against Mozambique, who narrowly missed out on the semi-finals last year on goal difference. The match will kick-off at 12h30 (08h30 GMT). Zambia is arguably the pre-tournament favourites, have always provided a competitive edge at all age-group levels in the COSAF region. But the Young Mambas will know they have it in them to spring a surprise and beat Zambia last year in the pool stages.

Hosts Mauritius, who were beaten finalists last year, begin their bid for the title with a Group A clash against Botswana in the final game of the day at 15h30 (11h30 GMT). It will be crucial for both sides to get off to a winning start if they are to make a bid for the knockout rounds. Only the top side in each group, as well as the best-placed runner-up, advance to the semi-finals.

Group B also contains South Africa and Lesotho, while Group C is made up of Zimbabwe, Angola, Malawi and Swaziland.

soource: cosafa.com

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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.