Football

2026 WCQ: Somalia confident ahead of crunch clash against Botswana

Somalia's Ocean Stars pose for a group photo before the game against Mozambique. (Photo: X/Somali Athlete)

By Yunis Dekow | Sunday, June 9, 2024

Set against the backdrop of Group G's exciting lineup of matches on Monday, the Ocean Stars will clash with Botswana at the Estádio do Zimpeto in Maputo, Mozambique.

The Somali Football President, Ali Abdi Mohamed Shine has expressed confidence as Somalia prepares for their upcoming CAF World Cup Qualifiers match against Botswana.

The Ocean Stars will face Botswana on Monday at the Estádio do Zimpeto in Maputo, Mozambique. This match is part of the exciting lineup of Group G fixtures.

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President Shine, speaking to The Eastleigh Voice on Sunday, emphasised the national team's potential to perform well on the continental and international stage. Despite previous setbacks, he remains optimistic about their chances.

"We are proud to represent Somalia on the international stage, and we will give our all to make our country proud and reclaim its global position," Shine said.

In their recent match, Somalia faced a tough challenge in Maputo, losing 2-1 to Mozambique.

Ismail Shirwa scored for Somalia, but it wasn't enough to secure a win. Following this result, Mozambique joined group leaders Algeria and Guinea with six points each, while Somalia remains at the bottom with no points.

As the final fixture in Group G approaches, both Somalia and Botswana are eager to secure three vital points. President Shine acknowledged the tremendous support from fans and expressed pride in representing Somalia internationally.

"The support from our fans has been tremendous, and I believe their energy will propel our team to future victories," Shine added.

SOMALIA 🇸🇴 🆚 BOTSWANA 🇧🇼
🏟️ Estádio do Zimpeto 🇲🇿
2PM KICK OFF 🇬🇧⏰ pic.twitter.com/xJ5rWNym8x
— SOMALI ATHLETE (@SomaliAthlete) June 9, 2024

For Somalia, this match is a significant opportunity to showcase their talents on the international stage. Botswana, on the other hand, will aim to leverage their experience and tactical prowess for an early advantage in the group.

Despite the challenges Somalia faces due to years of civil unrest and limited resources, the Somali National Football Team remains resilient, embodying the spirit of perseverance.

In addition to the Somalia-Botswana match, there's an exciting clash between Uganda and Algeria set up, followed by Guinea against Mozambique.