As the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations kicks off, Botswana’s President Duma Boko has issued a rallying cry to the country’s women’s national team, the Mares, urging them to give it their all and bring home the trophy. The team, led by Gaolethloo Nkutlwisang, is set to make their second appearance in the biennial competition, and President Boko is eager to see them improve on their maiden outing two years ago in Morocco, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage.
The Mares have a tough road ahead, with Group B pitting them against nine-time champions Nigeria, Tunisia, and Algeria. However, President Boko’s words of encouragement are sure to boost their morale. “The best attitude to take into the field is to enjoy yourself,” he said in an address to the team on the eve of their departure to Morocco. “It’s about unity, team spirit, and trusting in your ability. Keep believing, and remember the whole country stands firmly behind you.” These words of wisdom are likely to resonate with the players as they prepare to face off against some of the toughest teams in African women’s football.
Botswana’s campaign gets underway on Sunday, July 6, with a match against Algeria in Casablanca. As the team takes to the field, they will be carrying the hopes and expectations of an entire nation. With President Boko’s backing and the support of their fans, the Mares will be looking to make a statement and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in African women’s football. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on the Mares to see if they can overcome the challenges ahead and bring glory to Botswana. With their president’s words ringing in their ears, the team is ready to give it their all and make their country proud.
