Botswana secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Tunisia in their WAFCON Group B clash, thanks to a stoppage-time goal that sent shockwaves through Stade Père Jégo in Casablanca. However, the Mares' joy was short-lived as they now face an anxious wait to see if they've done enough to qualify for the quarter-finals.
A Thrilling Encounter
The match was a tense affair from the outset, with both sides knowing that only a win would keep their quarter-final dreams alive. Tunisia drew first blood in the 12th minute through Yesmin Khanchouch, who pounced on a loose ball to give the Carthage Eagles the lead. This was Tunisia's first goal of the tournament, injecting a much-needed confidence boost into their play.
Botswana's Fighting Spirit
Despite going behind, Botswana showed incredible resilience. They ramped up the pressure in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Lesego Radiakanyo fired home the equaliser after a well-worked move involving Mokgabo Thanda. The goal ignited the Botswana team and their supporters, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.
The closing stages were nothing short of frantic, with both teams throwing everything at each other in search of a decisive goal. Tunisia's Sabrine Ellouzi and Samia Aouni tested Botswana's goalkeeper Sedilame Boseja, who proved to be an unshakeable presence between the posts. At the other end, Refilwe Tholakele's pace and trickery caused constant problems for the Tunisian defence.
Late Drama and Disappointment
Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Botswana struck a dramatic blow in the 95th minute. Tholakele's blistering run down the right flank culminated in a pinpoint cross that was met by Gaonyadiwe Ontlametse, who guided the ball past the Tunisian goalkeeper Soulayma Jebrani. The Botswana bench erupted in celebration, believing they had secured their place in the next round.
However, their elation was quickly tempered by the news that Nigeria and Algeria had played out a goalless draw in the other Group B match. This result meant that both Nigeria and Algeria advanced, leaving Botswana in third place with three points. Botswana's fate now rests on whether they can qualify as one of the best third-placed teams in the tournament. The team and their fans now face a nervous wait to discover their fate.
- Tunisia took an early lead through Yesmin Khanchouch.
- Lesego Radiakanyo equalised for Botswana in the second half.
- Gaonyadiwe Ontlametse scored a dramatic late winner for Botswana.
- Botswana's quarter-final hopes hang in the balance.