Botswana coach plans positive approach against Uganda in AFCON qualifier

Botswana national soccer team coach Peter Butler said he was planning a positive approach to Saturday's African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match against Uganda.

Butler, who left for Uganda on Thursday to join his troops who departed earlier on Wednesday, told the media prior to his departure that he already has some information against Uganda that will guide him in approaching the match.

He said they are a powerful and physical side and he will go into the game with this in mind.

The British born mentor said it was important to start the qualifiers on a positive note hence he was aiming for a win against Uganda.

Last month Butler guided the Zebras to a fourth finish at the regional Confederation of Southern Football Association (COSAFA) tournament in South Africa. He alluded the tournament helped him a lot in preparations for the Uganda tie.

He said he was impressed with the display of youngsters he promoted from the under-23 team at the COSAFA tournament and had decided to keep them in the team to face the Cranes.

Butler's team includes a blend of experienced campaigners and youngsters. At least four players from the team that played at Botswana's first and only AFCON appearance in Gabon 2012 are still part of the team.

South African based goalkeeper Kabelo Dambe, midfielders Mogakolodi Ngele Joel Mogorosi, also playing in the South African league form the core of the team.

Defensive midfielder Ofentse Nato, currently on the books of Spanish La Liga side Athletico Madrid is expected to play a key role in neutralizing Ugandan attack on Saturday. The 24-year-old midfielder capped a fantastic season in the maiden Indian Premier League with Madrid's satellite.

Botswana is looking to make their only second appearance in the African showpiece in 2017. They have been pitted against Uganda, Comoros and Burkina Faso in Group D of the qualifiers. Endi