Zebras get presidential boost ahead of Flames clash

Botswana’s Zebras on Wednesday got a timely gee-up from their State President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who hosted them to a dinner in Gaborone, ahead of this afternoon’s 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Flames.

The Zebras host Malawi in a preliminary round first leg qualifier in Francistown with the second leg pencilled for Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre on Tuesday.

Masisi said he invited the Zebras to personally wish them the best of luck.

The Botswana leader pledged his unwavering support for the Zebras as they begin their journey of qualifying for the global showpiece.

“I want nothing but for you to score and keep scoring. It is important to compete in the World Cup qualifiers, you get exposed to scouts and brands. When you walk on that pitch you are carrying yourself as an attractive, young Motswana man.

“Go out, get your boots, play, feel good and show off your handsome selves. I’m fully behind you, let’s get ready to celebrate, let’s be anticipatory,” he was quoted as having said by allafrica.com.

He said the players would be exposed to other opportunities than just playing football, and urged them to use any good opportunity of breaking through in their careers.

President Masisi said he was considering to be part of the crowd that would be cheering the Zebras this afternoon.

However, Football Association of Malawi (FAM) vice-president James Mwenda, who is leading the Flames delegation, said the Flames are not moved with the gesture.

“The morale in camp is very high. I have told the players the importance of the back-to-back games and they are raring to go.

“They have assured me that nothing will distract them from the task at hand and they are prepared to fight their lungs out,” he said.