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Why a 42-0 score line should worry women’s football

The weekend 42-0 victory by Gaborone United Ladies team over a hapless Gantsi Swallows should not be a moment of celebration for women’s football in Botswana.

While dominant wins are often framed as proof of excellence, such an extreme score line instead exposes a serious lack of competition within the league. While Gaborone United (GU) cannot be blamed for beating what was put before them, the result highlights weaknesses that threaten the long-term growth, credibility, and attractiveness of the women’s game. Competitive balance is the foundation of any successful football league. When matches consistently end in overwhelming margins, the sport loses its unpredictability and instead becomes predictable and monotonous.

High-scoring games have become the norm rather than the exception with other weekend results showing wide-basketball score like margins.

Editor's Comment
Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing

“Let us never negotiate out of fear.But let us never fear to negotiate”– John F. KennedySupport for healthcare, education, skills and infrastructure can improve lives. The reaffirmed commitment to the Mmopane–Block 8 road is welcome for the prospect of better transport links for surrounding communities.China has shown willingness to assist Botswana, and government deserves credit for securing these commitments. However, the success of our...

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