02 Oct 2015

Batswana’s celebratory mood  ended on a sour note when Ethiopia defeated Botswana 3-2 on the independence day. The Zebras coach, Peter Butler, said the objective of the friendly game was to give the youngsters time to prove their mettle.

Butler said the young players did well, adding that people should not compare the team’s performance with the recent Burkina Faso game.

“Look, I was using players who had proved themselves at their respective clubs. 

Mind you, there was no Ofentse Nato, Mogakolodi Ngele and I gave Mmapule Masule a chance today. How do we know they are good enough if we don’t give them a chance,” he said.

However, it was clear that The Walias came to Botswana for a victory as they netted their first goal in the fifth minute through Dawit Fekadu, who terrorised the Zebras. The Zebras fought hard to retaliate, but could not penetrate the visitors’ solid defence. 

Most of their good attempts were dealt with by the goal keeper, Tariku Getnet.

In the 13th minute, Zebras could have levelled matters, but were unlucky after Hendrick Moyo’s attempt hit the wood work.

Zebras continued to pile more pressure on the visitors and in the 19th minute, they won a free kick, which was well taken by Segolame Boy, but Getnet made a good save. 

In the 33th minute, Butler pulled out the injured Tapiwa Gadibolae and introduced Joel Mogorosi.