22 Mar 2019

The Botswana Football Association has launched the new national teams apparel ahead of the Zebras’ last Total 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola on Friday evening at the Francistown Sports Complex. 
The merchandise from the new technical sponsor of all national teams, Umbro which is not yet available on the market is slated to be rolled out for supporters to purchase at the beginning of April. 
Officiating during the event, BFA Secretary General, Mfolo Mfolo explained that the three year deal commenced in January 2019 and has a renewal option upon expiry. 
The new apparel consists of a playing kit for both home and away matches, including alternative attire. The home and away kits appear in stripped blue and white Botswana colours while the alternative kit is black with blue and white colours.
 As an add-on to the merchandise, Mfolo mentioned that Umbro will also provide training kits and leisure wear for both men and women national teams at all age groups, including the senior teams.
 The deal, he noted is massive and explained that as an association, they were delighted to be associated with an international renowned technical sponsor in the form of Umbro which competes globally. 
On other issues, Mfolo highlighted that the merchandise will be distributed throughout the country and will also be available at Studio 88 shops.
 Responding to questions on what happened between the BFA and their previous technical sponsor, All Kasi, an evasive Mfolo flatly refused to shed light on what transpired, save to say that, that relationship is a thing of the past and the association had moved on.
Addressing the media, after the launch, Zebras caretaker coach, Mogomotsi Mpote explained that he was deliberately throwing the youngsters in the deep end so that they could get a feel of the rigors of playing continental football.
 This, he noted, would make it easier for them to learn to cope without experienced senior players. “I appreciate that a lot of senior players are on form in the current league campaign, however, these youngsters under the guidance of Joel Mogorosi are some of the best in the league and have been playing regularly,” he added.
 For his part, Angolan assistant coach, Love Cabungula said that they were coming into the game with one objective, which is to win.
 Though they respected their hosts, Cabungula mentioned that they are obliged to win in order to harbor hopes of qualifications.
 The fact that the Botswana team and technical department have changed since their first leg encounter, he highlighted, could prove to be challenging and anticipated a tough match. ENDS