Mental strength credited for Zebras' victory

The Zebras beat Somalia 2-0 at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium last night (Tuesday) to move to third in Group G, six points behind runaway leaders, Tunisia.

Mozambique remained second after suffering a 5-1 humiliation at the hands of Algeria yesterday. Ramoreboli told the media after the game that the team performed well and dominated the game. He expressed his satisfaction with the players' performance in a match in which the home side missed chances in the first half. He further said that from the first minute, they did so many things right and believed that they could have scored more. “Sometimes I always say that in the process of building a competitive side, we should always fight for consistency and proper repetition of football actions,” he said. Ramoreboli added that although the players performed admirably in the first half, it was unfortunate that they lost Tumisang Orebonye due to injury. He said when Thabang Sesinyi was subbed on in the second half their style of play differed from their initial strategy. Ramoreboli said they had to employ the 4-2-4 formation. "You need luck in football, which I believe arrived late," he said. The South African praised their substitution, which he said, added balance. He stated that in general, it was a good team performance. “When we dominate the game like this it shows that there is progress that we are making and believe that this is the beginning of good things to come,” he added. Ramoreboli thanked the fans who stayed until the very end of the game, which ended around 11pm. He said the fans' support pushed the team. Ramoreboli said they want to create a team that gives every Motswana hope and pride. Somalia coach, Yusuf Ali Nor said they intended to play a good game against Botswana. He blamed his defence for the loss after the visitors held their own, particularly in the second half where they had their moments.