Botswana’s senior women’s national team, the Mares, will have a tough task ahead in the second leg of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers after suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium this afternoon.
The match got off to a disastrous start for the home side when defender Lone Gaofetoge inadvertently turned the ball into her own net in the first minute, giving the visitors an early advantage. The Mares struggled to find their rhythm against a well-organized Congolese side, failing to capitalize on home support to mount a strong comeback.
As Botswana pushed for an equalizer in the dying minutes of the game, DR Congo struck again deep into stoppage time, with Gloria Mabomba sealing the victory in the seventh added minute. The late goal further dented the Mares’ hopes, leaving them with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Botswana will now need to overturn the two-goal deficit away in DR Congo, a task that will require a strong tactical approach and resilience. The team’s attacking unit will have to step up in the second leg to keep their WAFCON qualification hopes alive.
With the return fixture looming, head coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang will be looking to regroup and inspire her squad to produce a spirited performance on foreign soil. The Mares will need to display sharpness in front of goal and defensive discipline if they are to pull off a comeback and keep their dream of reaching the continental tournament alive.
