Botswana shocks Tanzania to reach COPA semis

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Botswana produced the shock of the COPA Coca-Cola Under-17 football tournament by reaching the semis after edging out overwhelming favourites Tanzania thanks to Tshepo Mokotedi's goal.

It was, however, young goalkeeper Bobby Mathe who made the difference through an outstanding performance between the posts.

Botswana players erupted into celebration at the final whistle as they booked their place in the semis where they will face Zambia. It was sweet victory for the Young Zebras who sneaked to the quarters ahead of Kenya on goal difference despite losing to the East Africans 3-2 in their last group match at Gemstone Stadium. In the second quarterfinal, Zambia maintained their inspiring form crushing Malawi 8-0 with Lupambo Musonda, Emmanuel Mwaba and Emmanuel Phiri each grabbing braces. Uganda needed post-match penalties to eliminate champions Nigeria with goalkeeper Ivan Mutumba as the hero. He saved two penalties after the game ended 1-1 in normal time. Uganda scored twice from the spot while Nigeria converted once in the low scoring shootout.

Editor's Comment
Inspect the voters' roll!

The recent disclosure by the IEC that 2,513 registrations have been turned down due to various irregularities should prompt all Batswana to meticulously review the voters' rolls and address concerns about rejected registrations.The disparities flagged by the IEC are troubling and emphasise the significance of rigorous voter registration processes.Out of the rejected registrations, 29 individuals were disqualified due to non-existent Omang...

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