Botswana beats Kenya in Africa Netball Cup opener

It is Botswana's first victory over Kenya since 2021. Botswana opened the scoreboard early showing intention to grab the first quarter. Kenya were able to close the margin as the quarter ended, with Botswana narrowly edging it 11-8. As the two sides went for the half time break, Dinaledi had established a 21-15 lead. Botswana continued where they left off from the break claiming the third quarter 27-21. Kenya gave Botswana a scare forcing the side to introduce fresh legs of goal shooter (GS), Chalido David, who brought height to the attack. She did not disappoint as she piled pressure on the Kenyan defense.

Speaking to Mmegi Online after the game, Botswana head coach, Neo Ntwaagae said the plan was to win the first game of the Africa Cup and it was important for the team. "Kenya has always beaten us, we now came up with a plan and it worked. In terms of fitness, my players are fit because they recently played Fast Five tournament, which is an endurance game," she said.

Ntwaagae explained that she made substitutions because there are more games coming, particularly removing Fatima Dino, who is not fully fit. She said the overall plan of the tournament is a podium finish.

Botswana's second game is tomorrow against Eswatini.