Botswana open their six-match 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group H campaign away to Libya on 24 September with a squad combining domestic and overseas-based players.
GAZETTE REPORTER
Botswana’s senior national football team, the Zebras, will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign against Libya on 24 September, opening a six-match Group H programme that also features Tunisia and Uganda.
The match against Libya, known as the Mediterranean Knights, is scheduled for 18:00.
Group H Route
The Zebras will return home four days later to face Tunisia, known as the Eagles of Carthage, before meeting Uganda twice during the November international window.
Botswana will travel to Uganda before hosting the Cranes, with the campaign concluding in March 2027.
The Zebras will host Libya before travelling to Tunisia for their final group match.
Squad Named
Head coach Thaloba Machine Nthaga has selected three goalkeepers: Victor James of Caps United FC, Thabo Motswagole of Gaborone United FC and Goitseone Phoko of Siwelele FC.
The defensive group includes Botsile Sakana and Tebogo Kopelang of Jwaneng Galaxy FC, Nonofo Thato Mosweunyane of Tonota FC, Alford Velaphi and Benson Kitso Mangolo of Gaborone United, Mosha Gaolaolwe of Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Chicco Molefe of Jwaneng Galaxy FC and Chivese Kesekile of Extension Gunners FC.
Midfield options include Mothusi Cooper and Bernard Kebotseng of Tonota FC, Gape Mohutsiwa of Ittihad Tanger, Lebogang Ditsele of Gaborone United, Godiraone Modingwane of BDF XI, Olebogeng Ramotse of Jwaneng Galaxy, Losika Ratshukudu of NK Slaven Belupo in Croatia and Ronaldo Picasso Fortune of Mochudi Centre Chiefs.
Attack Options
The attacking group features Eric Ookame of Orapa FC, Thero Setsile of Tonota FC, Gaone Japane of Morupule Wanderers, Thatayaone Kgamanyane of Gaborone United, Tumisang Orebonye of Hassania Union Sport Agadir FC and Boikobo Rannyena of Jwaneng Galaxy FC.
The qualifying campaign comes during a period of transition for the Zebras following the departure of Morena Ramoreboli, who has joined South Africa’s Bafana Bafana setup as an assistant coach.