Botswana’s national football team, famously known as “The Zebras,” has shifted its focus to the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, following a missed opportunity at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With their eyes set on making history, the team is gearing up for a spirited campaign to secure a spot in the World Cup tournament scheduled for 2026.
Their journey kicks off with a highly anticipated home match against Mozambique on November 18, followed by another thrilling clash against Guinea on November 21. Coach Mogomotsi Mpote, buoyed by the team’s recent morale-boosting 1-0 victory against Eswatini in Lobatse, expressed his determination to secure maximum points in these crucial initial matches.
Reflecting on their recent successes, Mpote highlighted the team’s improvements, evident in their 5-4 penalty shootout triumph over Zimbabwe on September 30 and their subsequent win against Eswatini. He emphasized the significance of trying various player combinations, recognizing the need for adaptability in the extensive World Cup qualifying journey that lies ahead.
Botswana finds itself in Group G, facing formidable opponents such as Algeria, Guinea, Uganda, Mozambique, and Somalia. Mpote underlined the advantage of playing the first two matches on home turf, emphasizing the team’s relentless efforts to secure maximum points. A successful start could position Botswana favorably, paving the way for a historic World Cup qualification, a dream that has eluded them thus far.
The stakes are higher than ever due to FIFA’s decision to expand Africa’s slots in the 2026 World Cup from four to six, resulting in nine qualifying groups, each comprising six teams. This exciting opportunity has energized Botswana’s squad, fueling their determination to excel on the global stage.
As the World Cup qualifiers unfold from November 2023 to November 2025, Botswana’s football enthusiasts eagerly await the journey of their beloved Zebras, hopeful that this could be the historic moment when their nation shines brightly in the international football arena.
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