09 Mar 2025

Botswana’s U17 women’s national team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Algeria 2-1 in their Womens World Cup qualifier game played at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium yesterday.

Algeria took an early lead in the 19th minute through a header by Hanane Sohoul following a free kick. Despite battling hard, Botswana went into halftime trailing 1-0.

However, a second-half resurgence saw them dominate possession creating numerous chances. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Hope Lesotlo unleashed a powerful shot, leaving the Algerian goalkeeper helpless, to equalise the score.

The momentum shifted decisively and with just three minutes remaining, Amogelang Sebotho secured the win with another long-range strike.

The young Mares head coach, Bonang ‘Bebeto’ Mosetha attributed the turnaround to tactical adjustments made at halftime. She noted that the first half was sub par, but she addressed the team’s shortcomings by replacing a defensive midfielder and focusing on attacking from the wings, a strategy which yielded both goals.

Looking ahead to the return leg in Algeria, the coach acknowledged the importance of protecting their advantage and highlighted the unfamiliar challenge of playing under bright stadium lights, a first experience for her young team.
She emphasised the seriousness with which they would approach the second leg. ENDS