Welfare storm rocks Mares’ COSAFA campaign
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday February 20, 2026 13:08
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Union confirmed it had met with national team players who were released from camp amidst an ongoing dispute with the Botswana Football Association (BFA).
FUB added that the players highlighted several unresolved issues. These included amongst others outstanding appearance fees from international friendly matches, non-payment of allowances and welfare support from the recent training camp, and disparities in remuneration between the women’s national team and their male counterparts.
The Union further said players had raised concerns about alleged disrespectful conduct from some BFA-appointed officials.
“Players are entitled to fair treatment, transparent communication, and the timely fulfilment of all contractual and financial obligations. These principles are fundamental to professional football and to the dignity of every athlete who represents our nation,” it stated.
FUB noted that whilst COSAFA 2024 appearance fees have been paid, other monies remain outstanding. The union said it would continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent resolution.
The welfare storm comes at a time when the team has undergone significant technical and personnel changes.
Head coach, Alex Malete, was removed shortly after naming his provisional squad and replaced by former coach Gaolethoo 'Ronaldo' Nkutlwisang, assisted by ex-captain Bonang Mosetha.
The coaching change triggered a major overhaul of the squad, with only 10 players retained from the initial 33-member provisional squad.
Notably, all the goalkeepers were dropped, including team captain Sedilame Bosija, Zambia-based Lesego Moeng, and Gaborone United’s Tlamelo Pheresi.
Despite the instability, the new-look squad arrived in Polokwane at midnight on Wednesday ahead of their opening Group B match against regional powerhouse Zambia played at 3pm yesterday.
The full travelling squad
Goalkeepers: Gosego Mokola (Galaxy), Othusitse Letebele (Systems), Tshotlhe Mphezulu (Double Action)
Defenders: Mokgabo Thanda (Green Buffaloes, Zambia), Ivy Mankgatau (Orapa All Stars), Theo George (Galaxy), Balotlhanyi Johannes, Koketso Molwantwa (both Double Action), and Boitumelo Gammu (FC Ongos, Namibia)
Midfielders: Keotshepile Kesetse, Bofelo Rantsho, Dimpho Sedirwa (all Double Action), Leano Busang (GU), Leungo Senwelo (Mazzotie FC), Precious Tlhapi (BDF XI), Hope Lesotlo (Dunamis), and Laone Moloi (Galaxy)
Forwards: Nolofatso Mamela, Oratile Kolobe (both Galaxy), Peggy Manewe, Mbapeua Hangara (both Double Action), Mitchell Abueng (BDF XI), Lebogang Dilelo (Dumanis), and Kelebogile Magaga (Rollers)