Botswana head coach Morena Ramoreboli has dropped bold statement following his side’s 3-1 defeat at the hands of Algeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
For much of the first half, the match was a balanced contest somewhat. However, just before the break, in the 44th minute, Algeria's Amine Gouiri struck, giving the visitors a crucial lead and leaving the home side reeling.
Botswana struggled to regain their footing after halftime, as Algeria continued to demonstrate their attacking prowess.
Algeria extended their advantage in the 52nd minute. Gouiri turned provider, delivering an exquisite pass that sent Mohamed Amoura clear behind the Botswana defense.
The Wolfsburg forward showed composure to slot the ball past goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko.
Botswana managed to find a lifeline in the 70th minute. Tebogo Kopelang met a cross with a header that was initially saved by Algeria's Alexis Guendouz, but the Botswana player reacted quickly to net the rebound.
Any hopes of a Botswana comeback were short-lived. Just four minutes later, Amoura struck again for Algeria. He once more found space behind the Botswana defense, this time rounding Phoko before tapping the ball into the net.
The defeat leaves Botswana in fourth place in their group with six points from five matches, trailing Algeria, Mozambique, and Guinea.
Despite the setback, Botswana's head coach, Morena Ramoreboli, remained optimistic and resolute. He emphasized the significance of their upcoming home fixture against Somalia next Tuesday.
WHAT RAMOREBOLI SAID AFTER SUFFERING DEFEAT TO ALGERIA
Ramoreboli says they will take the upcoming matches like cup finals as they hope to accumulate enough points to compete for the number spot.
“The remaining matches are like the Cup finals for us,” he said.
