Botswana in swim-or-sink battle
Soccer commentators have said the Zebras stand a chance to sail through.
Zambia and Angola, who have four points each, are about to qualify for the quarter-finals as they both need draws in their remaining group matches.
Zambia’s Chipolopolo face co-hosts Equatorial Guinea on Saturday in another contest that is expected to be so fiery and passionate whereas Angola face Gabon.
Flames legend Ernest ‘Wire’ Mtawali said on Friday that the Zebras, who were in the same group with the Flames during the showcase’s qualifiers, should not be counted out yet.
“If they can raise their tempo against Guinea, then they stand a chance to win and it will be good for southern Africa,” said Mtawali who is in Gabon on a scouting mission for his South African team Mamelodi Sundowns.
Flames coach Kinnah Phiri said although Guinea are a tough team, Botswana’s secret weapon lies in their never-say-die spirit.
“If they can start from where they stopped against Ghana, then they should stand a chance to win although it won’t be easy because Guinea are also a tough side,” Kinnah said.
Botswana coach Stanley Tshosane said a win this evening will put them in a good stead to advance to the quarter-finals.
“This is going to be a deciding game and is very important for us. It is a must-win game,” Tshosane told Botswana press.
Local soccer agent Kondi Msungama also said Zebras’ approach will be vital in determining their destiny.
“They need to start at full-throttle and take the game to the Guineans because once they allow their opponents to settle down and score first, then it will be very difficult.
“But I am certain that we will have at least two southern Africa teams qualifying for the quarter-finals,” Msungama said.
