22 Jun 2025

 In a scene that could only be described as a delightful mix of ambition and a dash of humility, President Advocate Duma Boko took to the field as captain of Team Botswana for a whirlwind 11 minutes during the Clash of the Legends tournament final against South Africa.

Dressed in jersey number 9, the President’s grand entrance was met with a roar of cheers from the enthusiastic crowd at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown on Saturday.

The excitement was palpable and for a moment, one could almost sense that this was more than just a football match; it was a moment of national solidarity.

Advocating unity through sport, Boko’s presence on the field symbolised hope and camaraderie, at least until the ball came his way.

As the match unfolded, the crowd was treated to an unexpected twist when Boko received a pass from a teammate.

In a moment that had everyone on the edge of their seats, the President took a swing and instead of returning the ball to another Botswana player, he cheekily passed it straight to an opponent.

Gasps turned to laughter in the stands, the type of laughter that was not mockery but a joyous recognition of the whimsical nature of the moment.

It was as if the spectators were collectively saying, ‘Hey, at least we do not have to litigate this blunder!’

Yet, like any seasoned attorney, Boko quickly shuffled his papers well, more like his feet, as he regained composure.

His passion for the game was infectious, and the crowd cheered not just for the football but for the sheer audacity of their leader trying something new.

As the match advanced, South Africa scored the first goal with a striking shot by Cyril Mzama, casting a shadow of concern over the home crowd.

But the spirits lifted when Sekhana Koko managed to equalise, sending a wave of hope sweeping through the stadium.

The supporters rallied behind their team, believing that victory was within reach.

However, the second half took a sharp turn to favour South Africa, who dominated the game.

Siphiwe Tshabalala scored the second goal, followed by a flurry from Katlego Masego, who netted the third and fourth goals, solidifying South Africa’s victory with a 4-1 scoreline.

It was a tough pill for Botswana to swallow, especially playing host, but the camaraderie and laughter did not fade as the crowd embraced the spirit of the day.

Following the match, one could not help but admire how President Boko, despite the missteps and the eventual loss, united the crowd in a way that few could.

His brief foray into football reminded everyone that even a lawyer at the pinnacle of power could be a good sport, quite literally.

As the dust settled, the spectators knew they had witnessed something special: a leader willing to step out of his comfort zone and into the joyous chaos of sport, bringing together a nation, if only for 11 minutes.

As for the President, he walked off the pitch not only as a captain but also as a reminder that amidst the pursuit of excellence, it’s okay to trip and laugh, after all, who doesn’t enjoy a good underdog story? 

The event closed with South Africa lifting the trophy for the second time in a row, having won last year's final in Gaborone. ENDS