Zebras start away to Tunisia

Covered in celebration: The Zebras fans celebrate the team's win against Guinea Bissau in the first leg PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMOZebras start away to Tunisia MQONDISI DUBE Staff Writer It will be an all too familiar start when the Zebras begin a hectic AFCON 2015 group stage campaign with an away trip to Tunisia on the weekend of September 5. The trip is certain to evoke July 1, 2010 memories as Zebras, unrecognized, sneaked out of the country to kick-start what rolled into a successful campaign. On that day, when the 2010 World Cup was in full swing, Zebras coach, Stanley Tshosane and his troops quietly left Sir Seretse Khama International Airport destined for Tunis. An unbelieving nation was greeted with news that the Zebras had claimed a famous 1-0 victory, torching an unbeaten run, which culminated in a first ever AFCON qualification. The Zebras were to complete a first ever double over a North African opponent. It was a tough group, which involved Tunisia, Togo, Malawi and Chad. This time around the task is even more daunting with Egypt, Tunisia, Senegal standing between the Zebras and a second AFCON appearance. The Zebras will not have much rest after the opening group encounter, as Senegal will be in Gaborone on September 10. A month later Botswana welcome another familiar opponent, Egypt who were held to a goalless draw during Colwyn Roweu2019s era. Their talisman, Mido was shut out by a no-nonsense Ernest u2018Nansi le ndodau2019 Amos during that game. Botswana will travel to Egypt just five days after the two meet in Gaborone as the whirlwind schedule continues. The Zebras host Tunisia on the weekend of November 14 and 15 before rounding up their campaign with a date against Senegal away on November 19. On paper it appears mission impossible for Zebras. But optimists will immediately refer to the 2012 AFCON campaign. It appeared doomed from the onset, but sprung to life after the shock Tunisia defeat. A good start in Tunisia is sure to set the tone for the remainder of the qualifiers as the Zebras look to continue their impressive away form. The top two sides qualify for next yearu2019s finals in Morocco.