Botswana’s national football team, the Zebras, under the guidance of coach Didier Gomes Da Rosa, has opted for a roster composed entirely of players currently plying their trade within Africa for the upcoming FIFA days. The decision, as explained by the French coach, is a strategic one aimed at maximizing the team’s preparation for crucial upcoming tournaments.
In unveiling the 23-man squad, Gomes Da Rosa emphasized the significance of focusing on local talent, highlighting the importance of these players’ participation in continental competitions.
The exclusion of international-based footballers, he clarified, was a deliberate choice made with a specific purpose in mind.
The rationale behind assembling a squad exclusively from African-based players is rooted in the team’s objectives for the near future, particularly the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup and the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
By nurturing a team comprised of talent operating within the African football landscape, Gomes Da Rosa aims to harness cohesion and readiness for these critical competitions.
The upcoming FIFA days will see Botswana engage in friendly matches against Rwanda and Burundi, serving a dual purpose in the team’s preparation strategy.
While these fixtures offer an opportunity to fine-tune tactics and assess player capabilities ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers slated for June, they also serve as crucial preparation for the impending CHAN qualifiers.
Gomes Da Rosa reiterated the significance of preparing adequately for the CHAN qualifiers, stressing the uncertainty surrounding the scheduling of Confederation of African Football (CAF) events, which could potentially occur in April or May.
With Botswana yet to feature in any edition of CHAN, the French coach is keenly focused on ensuring the team’s readiness should the qualifiers commence in the coming months.
As Botswana aims to make its mark on the continental stage, the strategic approach adopted by Gomes Da Rosa underscores the team’s commitment to maximizing its potential and achieving success in regional and international competitions.
