Woman FIDE Master (WFM) Boikhutso Mudongo, who was involved in a must-win top of the table clash against South Africa's Woman International Master (WIM) Anzel Solomons, could not break down her opponent and the game ended in a draw. Defending champion Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Tuduetso Sabure was involved in yet another draw with Doris Omoragbon of Nigeria. In the open section, FIDE Master (FM) Phemelo Khetho drew against Nigeria's Odalapo Adu in a game the Botswana FM feels he should have won. Providence Oatlhotse lost for the second consecutive time, a loss that practically ends his chances of getting any title from the tournament. He lost to International Master (IM) Ali Frhat of Egypt.
In an interview with Mmegi Sport after his fifth round draw, FM Khetho explained that it was difficult to come to terms with the fact that he had failed to crush the Nigerian despite the advantage of the white pieces. "My opponent played very fast which in the end worked well for him. In the final position I had a dangerous attack, but the difference in clock times played a major decision in my agreement to the draw. I had only seven minutes while Adu still had plenty of time," said the three-time Botswana champion. Asked if he should not have pushed a bit harder, Khetho replied that he could not risk losing the game as in this tournament every half a point is crucial.
