Ex-internationals tip Zebras to win

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Wednesday November 17, 2010 00:00

 

Itumeleng 'Tumi' Duiker, one of the finest footballers ever to come out of Botswana, believes the Zebras have what it takes to pass the test with flying colours.

'I see them winning because they have been doing well ever since the start of the campaign. They recently won a friendly match against Equatorial Guinea and that shows they are ready for Tunisia,' he told Mmegi Sport.

He believes the Zebras' recent fine run is clear testimony that everyone in the team is hungry for success. The former Extension Gunners midfield maestro does not see Tunisia halt the Zebras' nine-match unbeaten streak.

'The Zebras are not where they are by mistake, they have worked hard to get there. So I feel they are prepared for the Tunisians,' he said.

Former Notwane and Zimbabwe international, Fabian Zulu is not pressing panic buttons either despite Tunisia's intimidating away record. 'I do not see us losing to Tunisia. It's either we draw or we win,' he said. Zulu, the only player to don the Zimbabwe Warriors jersey while plying his trade in the Botswana league, is drawing his confidence from the fact that most of the national team players are currently in top form for their clubs.

'If you look at the Zebras' team, there is quality. Both local and foreign-based players have been outstanding for their clubs. Locally, Joel (Mogorosi) has been in top form for (Township) Rollers, in South Africa Dipsy (Diphetogo Selolwane) has been doing well for SuperSport. Dirang Moloi has also been fantastic for Vasco da Gama,' he said.

Former Gunners and Zebras' winger Kopano 'Computer' Phakedi believes the  best Botswana can get from then match is a draw. 'It's going to be a tough game but I think we can get a draw. A draw will be good for us because if we lose it will affect us in the coming games,' Phakedi said, adding that a win will be a bonus.