Zebras' destiny was determined long ago

It was like a very inauspicious and low-key departure on a cold June morning last year when the Zebras boarded a plane at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport at the start of the Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Only a handful of supporters witnessed the lifeless departure. The Botswana flag, which waived from side to side was the only evidence of a national team departing.

The mission was to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations finals in 2012. The team was dismissed as no hopers, and coach Stanley Tshosane probably attracted criticism with every stride he took. His appointment was met with scorn but the former BDF XI coach was defiant in adversity.