Mkandawire opens up on Botswana stay, reveals long-term target
Botswana-based Zambian midfielder Andrea Taonga Mkandawire has described the Botswana Premier League as a highly competitive competition while reiterating his ambition of one day playing in Europe.
Mkandawire joined now-relegated Calendar FC midway through the season and quickly established himself as one of the club’s standout performers.
The midfielder featured in 13 league matches and three FA Cup games, contributing two goals and four assists. His impressive performances also earned him two Man of the Match awards.
Speaking in an interview, Mkandawire admitted that adapting to Botswana’s football environment has been one of the biggest challenges since his arrival.
“This has been my first season in the Botswana Premier League, and I would say it’s a competitive league. Overall, football is enjoyable here. Coming from Zambia, adapting to the weather and playing matches at night has been one of the biggest adjustments because in Zambia we mostly play in the afternoon. But I’m getting there.”
Mkandawire also spoke about being compared to Jwaneng Galaxy’s Congolese midfielder Manda “Ma’Goire” Nongo, a player he greatly admires.
“We played against Nongo in our previous game. He’s a great player, and looking at what he has done for Botswana football so far, I want to surpass his achievements. I respect what he has accomplished, but I don’t want to follow in his footsteps. I want to create my own legacy.”
Despite attracting interest from several clubs within the Botswana Premier League, the Zambian midfielder insists his long-term ambition is to secure a move to Europe.
“My main goal is to play in Europe. If I don’t get the right opportunity in Botswana, then I’m heading for Europe. That’s my main target.”
Following an impressive first season in Botswana, Mkandawire is expected to complete a move to another Botswana Premier League club in the coming weeks as interest in his services continues to grow.
