30 Nov 2015

Botswana national Uunder 17 women team started the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualification on a wrong note after losing 1-2 to Namibia at National Stadium on Sunday November 29.

The team started the game on a high note and in the third minute Segolame Kampedi delivered a good pass, which Lesego Radiakanyo failed to finish off.

Botswana continued to pile pressure and it was clear that there were searching for an early goal that would help them to unsettle the visitors. 

As the game progressed, Namibia settled into the game, and it was evident that they did not want to attack as they were still studying their opponents and it was evident that their aim was to frustrate the hosts.

In the 12^th minute, Irene Kooper’s effort was denied by woodwork.

Two minutes after that, Namibia came back with yet another attack and Kylie Van-Wyk succeeded in beating all the defenders and goalkeeper, but Kamogelo Omphile cleared the ball from the goal line.

Both teams attacked each other from all angles, but in the 34^th minute Van-Wyk made a solo effort oinside Zebras territory and her resilence paid dividends,when she scored the first goal.

The goal rubbed Zebras the wrong way, as they piled pressure on opposition, but their hard work was thwarted by Namibia’s rock-solid defence marshalled by Anna Shaende, Fransisca Haoses and Nangula Shuumbwa.

A minute before recess, Zebras’ no retreat! no surrender! attitude paid dividends as Radiakanyo made it 1-1.

After the break, Botswana came back a better side as they were always first on the ball, but lack of holding the ball more especially in the midfield cost them.

In the 81st minute Botswana defence were caught napping and Haoses did not waste time but scored the second goal to make it 2-1.

Botswana coach, Olorilwe Mogapi said the girls did not follow the instructions.

He said it was the first time, his team met on international game and  were under a lot of pressure, adding that he would have to work very hard for the return leg.

Namibia coach, Mervin Mbareka said he was happy that they managed to win the first leg away, adding Botswana was a good team, therefore they would not make any mistake of relaxing when they play at home.

He said they won the game, because of his player’s character. The second leg will be played on December 11 in Namibia. Ends