With their sights set on qualification for the TotalEnergies Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Botswana’s senior women’s football national team, the Mares, is intensifying its focus on the pivotal roles players will play in the upcoming campaign.
A litmus test awaits the team as they go head-to-head with Kenya on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The return fixture is scheduled for December 5 at the National Stadium in Gaborone. These matches mark a defining moment for the team as they strive to secure a position among Africa’s football elite.
“We stand a very good chance against Kenya,” said veteran sports journalist Tshepo Molwane when asked to analyse the game.
“Managing the away game is crucial. If we secure at least a draw or a win, then finishing strong at home will be key. The experience in our team is more than sufficient to ensure victory in this encounter.”
The Mares have undergone recent changes in the technical team, prompting questions about its impact. Molwane voiced optimism, highlighting the familiarity players have with the current coach, Alex Malete.
“The good thing about the current coach is that the players know him well, having been with the team for a long time. He was part of the previous WAFCON, and personally, I think it’s going to work for us.”
As they prepare for the upcoming clash, the Mares will lean on players like Refilwe Tholakele, celebrated for standout performances in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Tholakele, recently awarded the Golden Boot, played a pivotal role in Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ historic triumph in the CAF Women’s Champions League final, securing a 3-0 victory over SC Casablanca in Ivory Coast. Her scoring prowess, showcased with a brace, underscores her significance. Goalkeeper Sedilame Bosija, Tholakele’s teammate at Sundowns, is a crucial member of The Mares.
Meanwhile, The Mares’s previous accomplishments in the WAFCON buoy the team’s spirits. Notably, they made history by reaching the quarterfinals in their debut appearance at the continental tournament, securing a spot among the last eight following a commendable performance as one of the third-placed teams in the group stages.
