Botswana national senior women football team Head Coach Alex Malete has expressed satisfaction with his team’s preparation as they head to the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) that is scheduled for Morocco next month.
The Mares are drawn into Group B of the tournament and they will play their first match with Algeria on the 06 July 2025 at Père Jégo Stadium in Casablanca.
In their second match scheduled for the 10 July 2025, Botswana will lock horns with Nigeria at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The Mares will on their third match face Tunisia on the 13 July 2025 at Père Jégo Stadium in Casablanca.
Speaking during the team’s send-off Ceremony that was held in Gaborone this week, Malete expressed confidence in his team, noting that when they prepared for the tournament they played some of the best countries that include Morocco, Mali, Zambia and South Africa.
“I can assure you that we will give everything that we have and surely we will do it, we leave with one mission to compete fiercely, represent honourably and return proudly,” said Malete.
Malete further said that his players have what it takes to compete, something the team has demonstrated countless times, stating that the team is not only built on talent but it is also built on unity and resilience. He indicated that they have created a sustainable environment for the team that can sustain success, which is a process that is very difficult to achieve.
“To the nation of Botswana thank you for believing in us, your belief lift us up, we know that it is not going to be easy but we have prepared enough to stand the challenges that some of players have encountered before,” he said.
In his remarks, Botswana Football Association (BFA) Vice President Maokaneng Bontshetse said that the team’s strength, determination, and unwavering spirit are more than just inspiring. He stated that the Mares are a living testament to what is possible when passion meets discipline, and when dreams are matched with tireless effort.
He pointed that the entire nation stands behind the team not just as supporters, but as believers in its ability to carry Botswana’s flag with pride, poise, and power. Bontshetse has encouraged the Mares to go forth with courage and conviction, knowing that Botswana believes in them.
“May this camp in Morocco strengthen your unity, sharpen your skills, and prepare you for greatness at WAFCON 2025. You carry the hopes of a nation and the dreams of every young girl who now knows that they too can rise, shine, and conquer on the continental stage,” he said.
