In 2008, I predicted that the Zebras of Botswana would qualify for AFCON 2010. Well, it did not happen, but they became the first team to qualify for the next event, and also won the Africa Team of the year award.
Many have written them off as also ran because they are placed in the group of death with favorites Ghana -with whom they play their opening match, Guinea - who toppled the fancy Eagles of Nigeria, by getting four points out of six against the Nigerians, including a hard fought 2-2 draw in Nigeria on the final day of qualifying and the Malians who are as fearsome as any team in West Africa today.
Despite the lack of financial support comparable to that promised to their opponents, and the feeling of lack of appreciation by the team, the boys are still very focused and united on the job to be done.
My prediction is that the Zebras will come through the "back door" and qualify why the West African trio cancel each other. A draw and a win would be enough for the zebras who would qualify on goal difference/head to head rule. In any case, they would be as difficult to beat as any team in the group.
N Forcheh
16/01/2012
Many have written them off as also ran because they are placed in the group of death with favorites Ghana -with whom they play their opening match, Guinea - who toppled the fancy Eagles of Nigeria, by getting four points out of six against the Nigerians, including a hard fought 2-2 draw in Nigeria on the final day of qualifying and the Malians who are as fearsome as any team in West Africa today.
Despite the lack of financial support comparable to that promised to their opponents, and the feeling of lack of appreciation by the team, the boys are still very focused and united on the job to be done.
My prediction is that the Zebras will come through the "back door" and qualify why the West African trio cancel each other. A draw and a win would be enough for the zebras who would qualify on goal difference/head to head rule. In any case, they would be as difficult to beat as any team in the group.
N Forcheh
16/01/2012
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