03 Aug 2015

The Botswana national boxing team is rounding up preparations before heading to the quadrennial All Africa Games showpiece in Congo Brazzaville early next month.

Speaking on the sidelines of an international friendly match against Lesotho over the weekend, one of the two technical team coaches, Lechedzani Master Luza said he was optimistic that his charges would put up a good show in the central African state, but said they were still working on a few aspects of the game as it was evident over the weekend that some boxers were still to sharpen their physique and tactical approach.

The only worrying factor for the Brazzaville bound team is that they will be missing the services of African flyweight champion, Oteng Oteng who will be home owing to school commitments.

Oteng is the current champion in the 52kg division after edging out the tricky Algerian pugilist, Samir Brahimi in a closely contested bout in Mozambique in 2011. 

Botswana won silver and a bronze through Mmoloki Nogeng and Gomotsang Gaasite respectively at the same tournament.

On Saturday, the Bagwasi brothers, Kabelo and Kagiso continued their good run pounding out one sided victories against their Lesotho challengers, Qoboshane Motlerepe and Tshepo Lepoqo.

Ghanzi born boxer Mmusi Tswiige’s left hand, speed and footwork helped him break down Bokang Khoai who appeared much stronger in the initial rounds.

National team new face, Kefentse Molalapata succumbed to Khauhelo Mothunyane’s low blows, and the latter marched on to a narrow victory after a split vote in the final round.

African youth champion, Mohamed Otukile and Kutlwano Ogaketse in the 56kg relied on their speed and accuracy to become a handful to their Lesotho opponents,  Thabo Molibedi and Katleho Motlopi respectively. 

The two young boxers are preparing for the Samoa Youth Olympics. 

Tefo Rammupudu started his campaign on a wrong footing losing by a split decision to Nkululeko Sumpele. Moroke Mokhohlo also beat another 54kg hopeful Thabiso Mpolokeng. 

Zibani Chikanda rose to the occasion in the 75kg division and defeated Mokhachane Moshoeshoe.

Luza said they were courting at least two strong opponents, especially Morocco and Angola before flying out to Congo. ENDS