Da Rosa Shakes Up Squad
In a surprising turn of events, the Botswana Men's Senior National Team, affectionately known as the Zebras, is set to debut a revamped squad at the upcoming COSAFA Regional tournament under the guidance of recently appointed head coach, Didier Gomes Da Rosa.
The anticipation surrounding the squad selection was met with shock and intrigue as Coach Da Rosa opted to introduce fresh faces to the team while leaving out some seasoned senior players. Notably absent from one of the two roster lists are some key players from the national champions, Jwaneng Galaxy who are expected to compete in the Orange FA Cup final.
Instead, the squad boasts a significant representation from Masitaoka, with seven players making the cut. Goalkeeper Victor James, midfielder Olebogeng Ramotse, and defenders Obakeng Senono and Botsile Sakana are among those selected from the Molepolole-based side.
Monty Enosa is the sole attacker from Masitaoka, adding firepower to the lineup. Gaborone United also features prominently in the squad, with goalkeeper Thabo Motswagole, midfielder Omphile Ramoagi, defender Leruo Ratlala, and striker Molaodi Thalefang making the roster, while Township Rollers is only represented by Thabo Babutsi.
However, the absence of players from Orapa United and Jwaneng Galaxy, who are set to compete in the upcoming Orange FA Cup final has raised questions about the squad selection process among many local fans. Notable inclusions in the squad are Karamelo Kgosipula from Matebele, Oarabile Sekwai from relegated side Police XI, and international players Lizo Sekweyiya and Jovan Nikolic, who ply their trade in the USA and Portugal, respectively.
The omission of established players such as Mosha Gaolaolwe, Mogakolodi Ngele, Thabang Sesinyi, Ricky Rathogo, Thabo Maponda, Onkabetse Makgantai, Kutlwelo Mpolokang and Tumisang Orebonye has stirred debate among fans, with many questioning whether this squad represents the future direction of the team or if it's merely an experimental phase. With the COSAFA tournament looming and the Zebras set to kick off their campaign on June 15th, all eyes will be on Coach Da Rosa and his new-look squad as they aim to make their mark in regional football.