Khalid Niyonzima (Gaborone United): “We will compete without fear.”

CAFOnline.com: Coach, Gaborone United have written a historic chapter by qualifying for the CAF Women’s Champions League. What was your first reaction?

Niyonzima: Honestly, it’s an incredible feeling. I’m so proud of the players, the technical staff and everyone involved. This qualification is the reward for months of hard work and sacrifice. It’s not just for Gaborone United — it’s for the whole of Botswana. We’ve made history and we understand the responsibility that comes with it.

CAFOnline.com: What do you believe was the key factor behind this success?
Niyonzima: Confidence and collective discipline. From day one, we agreed that our strength would be in our unity. Every player understood her role, and we focused on improving tactically, physically and mentally. The management’s support allowed us to stay fully focused on football — that combination made the difference.

CAFOnline.com: You have built a young but ambitious team. How did you shape its playing identity?
Niyonzima: By combining tactical discipline with creativity and intensity. I encourage players to express themselves, but within a strong collective structure. We’ve worked to control matches and play with identity — not just react. The players’ commitment to that vision has been exceptional.

CAFOnline.com: How would you describe your players’ mindset since qualification?
Niyonzima: They’re proud, motivated and hungry. This qualification showed them what’s possible. But what I admire most is that they don’t just want to participate — they want to compete and excel. They know they’re carrying the hopes of an entire nation.

CAFOnline.com: You’ll be facing some of Africa’s most experienced clubs. How are you preparing for that challenge?
Niyonzima: We respect every team, but we’re not intimidated. Our preparation covers every aspect — tactical, physical and mental. We study our opponents carefully, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and adapt strategies based on our own qualities. The goal is to be organized, disciplined and courageous. We want to show that champions from Botswana and COSAFA can compete with anyone.

CAFOnline.com: What does this qualification mean for women’s football in Botswana?
Niyonzima: It’s a milestone. It gives hope to young girls who dream of playing professionally and shows that with the right investment and structure, local clubs can achieve great things. I hope it inspires even more support for women’s football across the country.

CAFOnline.com: How do you keep your players motivated and disciplined with such a demanding schedule?
Niyonzima: Discipline starts with club culture. At Gaborone United, we’ve built a culture of professionalism and accountability. The players know that talent alone isn’t enough — you need consistency, focus and humility. Motivation comes naturally when you have a clear purpose and strong team bonds. We remind ourselves every day that we represent something bigger — our badge, our fans and our country.

CAFOnline.com: What are your specific goals for the CAF Women’s Champions League?
Niyonzima: Our first goal is to compete without fear and represent Botswana with pride. We want to get out of the group stage — that’s our minimum target. From there, anything is possible. We’ve proven we can rise to big occasions, and we’ll approach every game with ambition and respect.

CAFOnline.com: Women’s football in Africa is growing rapidly. How do you assess that evolution?
Niyonzima: The progress has been remarkable. The professionalism, tactical awareness and technical quality have all improved significantly. Structures are stronger, leagues are better organized and investment is growing. Of course, there’s still room for improvement — especially in youth development and coaching education — but the future is very bright.

CAFOnline.com: What steps does Botswana need to take to become a regular force in African women’s football?
Niyonzima: We must strengthen our domestic league, invest in youth development and create more professional training environments for girls. Coaching education and sports science should also be priorities. Above all, we need consistent support — financial, technical and institutional — to sustain progress. With a strong foundation, Botswana can become a regular contender in Africa.

CAFOnline.com: Finally, what message do you have for Gaborone United supporters and those who believe in your project?
Niyonzima: To our supporters — thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve been our twelfth player, and your belief carried us this far. This success belongs to you as much as to the team. Keep supporting us as we step onto the continental stage. And to everyone who believes in women’s football in Botswana — this victory is yours too. Together, we’ve shown that hard work and faith make anything possible.