The BFA said the coach who has been with the Zebras on a caretaker basis since last year, has been mandated to take the team to the finals of 2011 African Nations Championships (CHAN) and 2012 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). This was almost the same mandate, which was given to fired Briton Colwyn Rowe when he arrived in Botswana some years ago and he failed dismally.
When BFA president David Fani announced the confirmation of Tshosane on Tuesday, he left no doubt that the decision was driven by cost implications. It was obvious that Tshosane got the job ahead of the more colourful Danish Roald Poulsen because he was affordable. "We cannot go buy a jet when we cannot afford it. Affordability is a factor when it comes to decision-making. But I am not saying that we settled for Tshosane because he was cheap," Fani told reporters. The move to appoint Tshosane came as a surprise considering that Poulsen has been to the 1996 AFCON finals with Zambia where they went as far as the semi-finals. "I've confidence that Tshosane can lead the Zebras because he has a passion for football. All we need is to give the coach the necessary support during his term," Fani pleaded.
But most football commentators argue that Tshosane does not have the qualities to coach at the high level. Some say the former BDF XI coach lack tactical acumen and he has been exposed when playing against stronger opposition. It is understood that players do not have respect for Tshosane. "It is important for players to respect the coach and I find it unacceptable for you (media) to call the players and ask them about the coach's tactics," said Fani. Tshosane had earlier told reporters that some players have told him that journalists call them to ask about his tactics and other matters.
In the last 12 games under the tutelage of Tshosane, Zebras only managed three wins over Mozambique, Swaziland and Seychelles. They were beaten six times and drew thrice. By any standards, this is a poor return and that goes to show that BFA did not take these statistics into consideration. Football is result-oriented and any coach who does not deliver is usually shown the door. That is why the appointment of Tshosane has been met with criticism.
Yarona fm sports presenter McDonald 'Chilliboy' Rakgare lambasted the BFA's decision saying quality cannot be compromised because of costs. "There is no doubt that players do not have respect for Stan and I doubt if he will be able to control them," he told Mmegi Sport. Rakgare added that he has been following Zebras' performance and there is no improvement. He dismissed those who say the Zebras' performance at the COSAFA Senior Challenge had some positives. "I don't think we will ever reach the AFCON finals when we continue relying on people like Stan," he said.
Former Zebras' midfielder, Noah 'Stooge' Kareng said that he is disappointed that the BFA settled for Tshosane. He had hoped that BFA would opt for a foreign coach who will earn respect from the players with Tshosane remaining an assistant. "We need fresh ideas and someone who will not be influenced to choose certain players. It is happening with Stan and we cannot deny it. From what I've seen since he took over, we've not improved and I don't think we'll go anywhere," he said. Kareng criticised BFA leadership for not having the nation's interest at heart by going for Tshosane.
On Monday, when he was interviewed in the weekly RB 2 sports show, Tshosane said that he has the confidence to change the fortunes of the Zebras. "I want to thank the BFA for having confidence in my abilities. I want to thank those who have supported me during this time. Even those who were against my appointment, I would like to thank them," he said. Now that he has got the substantial appointment, it is important for Tshosane to forget about the petty issues and focus on the job at hand. The football community is watching.
