Botswana National Team Faces Discipline Issues Ahead of 2021 AFCON Qualifiers
As the Botswana national team prepares for its upcoming 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches, coach Adel Amrouche is grappling with internal disciplinary issues. In revealing his squad on Monday, the Belgo-Algerian tactician explained the omissions of Mothusi Johnson, Mothusi Cooper, Onkabetse Makgantai, and Thero Seetsile, all of whom were caught consuming alcohol in their hotel rooms during a previous training camp. This camp had taken place last month ahead of a friendly against Egypt.
The incidents have forced Amrouche to make a firm stand. The coach emphasized that he expects decisive action from the Botswana Football Association regarding the players involved. He underlined the importance of discipline and professionalism, especially during international duty, where players are representatives of their country and their conduct reflects on the team as a whole.
Among the players implicated, Mothusi Cooper issued a public apology on social media, acknowledging his wrongdoing and promising to learn from the mistake. Despite these apologies, Amrouche has made it clear that he will prioritize team discipline over individual talent. These omissions are a clear message to the squad that professionalism and adherence to team rules are non-negotiable, even for key players.
The Zebras will first face Zimbabwe on November 15, followed by a challenging match against Algeria three days later. With important points at stake in the opening stages of the AFCON qualifiers, Amrouche is keen to ensure that the squad is mentally and physically prepared for these challenges.
The coach has assembled a balanced squad despite the disciplinary setbacks. His selections include a mix of experience and youth across all positions. In goal, Ezekiel Morake of TS Galaxy (South Africa), Kabelo Dambe of Township Rollers, and Lesenya Malapela of Orapa United have been called up to provide stability.
The defensive line features Mmoloki Kebalepile (Extension Gunners), Gape Gaogangwe (Orapa United), Tshepo Maikano (Gaborone United), Onkarabile Ratanang, Simisane Mathumo, Thatayaone Ditlokwe (all Township Rollers), Lesenya Ramora (Highlands Park, South Africa), and Kaelo Kgaswane (Security Systems), ensuring a strong and organized backline.
Midfield responsibilities will be shared among Mosha Gaolaolwe (TS Galaxy, South Africa), Molebatsi Tlhalefo, Ofentse Nato, Maano Ditshupo (Township Rollers), Keagile Kobe (BDF XI), Thatayaone Ramatlapeng (Security Systems), Mogakolodi Ngele (Black Leopards, South Africa), Kabelo Seakanyeng (Lija Athletic, Malta), and Mpho Kgaswane (Zira FC, Azerbaijan).
Up front, Botswana will rely on attackers Tumisang Orebonye, Lemponye Tshireletso (Township Rollers), Kenanao Kgetholetsile (Security Systems), Mishani Thupa (Extension Gunners), and Thayaone Kgamanyane (Gaborone United) to provide goals and offensive pressure.
Despite the challenges, Amrouche remains focused on building a united, disciplined squad capable of competing effectively in the qualifiers. The coming weeks will test not only the players’ skills but also their commitment and professionalism, as the Zebras aim to make an impact in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
