Botswana midfielder Edwin Mohutsiwa has been making a name for himself in Algeria’s top flight, delivering standout performances for ASO Chlef.
The 27-year-old has become a key player under coach Samir Zaoui, helping his side achieve strong results in the Algerian Ligue 1.
His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, earning him a call-up to the Botswana national team for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Algeria and Guinea.
In an exclusive interview, Mohutsiwa shared his thoughts on his club career, the upcoming fixture against Algeria, and his ambitions for the national team.
Thriving in Algerian Football
Reflecting on his time at ASO Chlef, Mohutsiwa expressed satisfaction with his development in the highly competitive Algerian league.
“Alhamdulillah, I’m happy with what I have achieved so far. The Algerian league is intense, with strong teams fighting for top honors.
I am in my third season here, and winning the Algerian Cup two years ago was a proud moment for me.
Chlef has given me a platform to showcase my abilities, and as a result, I have been consistently called up to the national team for World Cup and AFCON qualifiers.”
Despite a challenging start to the season, he believes his club has turned a corner.
“The first half of the season was tough for us, but we managed to regain our rhythm and improve our standings.
We are aiming to finish as high as possible in the table because our ambitions are greater than our current position suggests.”
A High-Stakes Clash with Algeria
Botswana will host Algeria on March 21 in a decisive World Cup qualifier. With Algeria leading the group and Botswana sitting three points behind, Mohutsiwa sees this as a golden opportunity.
“This match is crucial for us because a win would bring us level with Algeria in the standings. It’s almost like a six-point game.
Algeria is one of the strongest teams in Africa, so we know it will be a tough challenge. They will come with full determination, but we are also ready to give everything.”
Impact of Playing During Ramadan
With the match taking place during Ramadan, Mohutsiwa was asked whether it might affect Algeria’s performance, given that many of their players will be fasting.
“I understand that playing while fasting is difficult, and honestly, I would prefer it if conditions were equal for both teams.
But we don’t control that. Our focus is on preparing well and giving our best on the pitch.”
Algeria’s Biggest Threats
When asked which Algerian players he sees as the main dangers, Mohutsiwa highlighted several names.
“Algeria has a very strong squad with many high-level players. Riyad Mahrez is obviously a major threat—one of Africa’s best.
Baghdad Bounedjah is also dangerous, and then there’s Pablo (referring to Youcef Belaïli). We will need to be very disciplined to contain them.”
A Special Match on a Personal Level
Having spent three years playing in Algeria, Mohutsiwa admits that facing the national team holds personal significance.
(Laughs) “It’s an international match like any other, but for me, it has a special feeling because I play in Algeria.
I have received so much warmth from the people here, and I almost feel like one of them.
But on matchday, my duty is to Botswana. I will give everything to help my country secure a victory and make our supporters proud.”
