Cape Verde will host Botswana at the Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde on Thursday in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match. Cape Verde aims to secure a second consecutive win, while Botswana seeks their first points in the campaign.
Cape Verde’s Recent Form
After a tough 3-0 loss to Egypt in their opening match, Cape Verde bounced back with a 2-0 win over Mauritania, with Ryan Mendes scoring both goals. Currently second in Group C, Cape Verde has shown strong defensive form, keeping six clean sheets in their last eight matches. They have also been formidable at home, unbeaten in their last five matches.
Botswana’s Recent Form
Botswana’s hopes of a second-ever AFCON appearance seem bleak after two defeats: a narrow 1-0 loss to Mauritania followed by a 4-0 defeat to Egypt. The Zebras have struggled under coach Didier Gomes Da Rosa, failing to score in five of their last 12 matches while conceding 14 goals. They currently sit bottom of Group C with no points.
Team News
Cape Verde:
Cape Verde could retain their attacking trio of Gilson Tavares, Ryan Mendes, and Helio Varela. Mendes, the team’s all-time top scorer with 20 goals, will be key. Dailon Livramento and Willy Semedo may push for starting roles after appearing as substitutes in the last match.
Botswana:
Botswana will be without Thatayaone Kgamanyane and Mpho Kgaswane due to injuries. Gape Mohutsiwa has been a standout performer for the Zebras despite their struggles, and his influence will be crucial if they hope to cause an upset.
Predicted Lineups
Cape Verde:
Varela; Fernandes, Costa, Diney, Moreira; D. Duarte, L. Duarte, Pina; Mendes, Tavares, Varela
Botswana:
Phoko; Mangolo, Ditlhokwe, Kopelang, Velaphi; Mohutsiwa, Gaolaolwe, Majafi; Ramotse, Orebonye, Seakanyeng
Prediction
Cape Verde enters this clash as clear favorites, given their stronger squad and solid home form. Botswana has struggled to find consistency and will be up against it in this fixture.
Prediction: Cape Verde 2-0 Botswana
