Botswana returned to winning ways in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a 2-0 victory over Somalia at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown on Tuesday night.
The win propelled the Zebras to third place in Group G as they set their sights on avenging their recent defeat to Algeria when the two teams meet in North Africa in September. Meanwhile, Somalia, still searching for their first win, remained at the bottom of the standings after suffering their fifth defeat in the campaign. Coach Yusuf Ali Nur’s side will host Guinea when qualifiers resume.
Botswana dominated possession in the first half but struggled to convert their chances. Their attacking efforts suffered a setback in the 41st minute when star striker Tumisang Orebonye was forced off with an injury, prompting coach Morena Ramoreboli to bring on Thabang Sesinyi. Despite their dominance, the first half ended goalless as Somalia held firm defensively.
Ramoreboli made an attacking change early in the second half, replacing Segolame Boy with Tshepo Keselebale—a move that paid off. Keselebale assisted Gape Mohutsiwa, who fired past Somalia’s goalkeeper Abdirahman Mohamud Jama in the 74th minute to break the deadlock.
Botswana sealed the victory in the 83rd minute when Mothusi Johnson capitalized on a defensive lapse to double the lead, securing all three points for the hosts while ensuring a clean sheet.
