Botswana coach Butler looks for balance of youth and experience

Peter James Butler

Friday Mar 31, 2017. 13:00

Botswana head coach Peter Butler has justified some of his team selections for recent international friendly match against Tanzania.

The Zebras of Botswana were defeated 2-0 by Tanzania's Taifa Stars thanks to goals from Mbwana Samatta in Da es Salaam last weekend.

Questions were asked when the English tactician called up unattached players and those who are not regulars at their clubs ahead of the friendly game.

“Whichever way they would be questions, selection is subjective. International football is different from local competition," Butler said on Mmegi.

"You look for balance of youth and experience when you select your squad. There is need for mental strength, otherwise you do not exist.

"That is why I selected the likes of Nato, (Lemponye) Tshireletso, Lesego (Galenamotlhale). I want players with good ethics and moral."

Botswana are scheduled to participate in the 2018 African Nations Championships (CHAN) and 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers later this year.

The Zebras have never qualified for the CHAN finals, but they did reach the 2012 AFCON finals. It was their debut appearance in the tournament.