All teams that have qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations and which will be based in the city of Franceville in Gabon might play their matches in empty stadiums.
This is so because of the travelling hardships to the City. Even supporters of Botswana’s Zebras who want to go there might not make it because of the dire situation. Travelling to Gabon’s capital, Libreville, does not seem to be a problem but going to Libreville is a hassle.
From Libreville to Franceville is about 500 km and is reported to take up to twelve hours or more using rail or road.
Apart from the travelling teams that have special arrangements, there seems to be a problem for supporters and other dignitaries willing to travel. The president of the Botswana Football Association, David Fani, is even struggling to secure travelling arrangements for the Minister of Youth Spots and Culture, Shaw Kgathi, who intends to watch Botswana’s opening match. Fani told Telegraph Sports that the Zebras might play their matches in Franceville without a single dignitary from Botswana. He said once they reach Libreville, they have to take a train or hire own private transport to Franceville.
Zebras’ supporters willing to travel are worried that if they manage to travel to Libreville, they might struggle to get to Franceville.
The spokesperson of the supporters committee, Keemenao Gaborone, told Telegraph Sports that they are still trying to make last minute arrangements to travel to Gabon but might be hindered by Franceville’s inaccessibility. “We are working hard through the help of the BFA, asking the government to assist us to travel to Gabon and give the team all the necessary support. But if they can help us as they did in the past we will face hassles in that country. A lot of basic necessities are lacking in that country,” he said.
