The Zebras will look to continue their proud COSAFA Cup dominance over Eswatini when they start their campaign against the King’s Shield in Durban, South Africa, later today (5 July).
The national team go into this afternoon’s 1500hrs kick-off at the King Zwelithini Stadium knowing they have never lost in five previous COSAFA meetings with Eswatini, winning three and drawing two.
Drawn in Group A alongside South Africa and Namibia, Botswana know a good start is vital in the 12-team regional tournament as they bid for a first ever COSAFA crown.
Head coach, Mogomotsi Mpote believes his lads are ready, the mood is upbeat, and he is pleased with how they are responding.
“It is the first game, and we’re going to show them what we’ve been working on: the defence, attack transition, and making sure we create all the chances that can hurt our opponents,” declared Mpote.
Sticking to his commitment to give youth a chance as he looks to rebuild for the future, Mpote has called-up several young players, including Eric Ookame, who recently joined Gaborone United from Eleven Angels, as well as another former Angel, Monty Enosa, now of Masitaoka.
Having reached the final on two previous occasions, the Zebras are looking to go one better this time around.