Gaborone United name Khalid Niyozima as interim coach

Botswana Premier League champions Gaborone United have appointed Khalid Niyozima as interim head coach. The Burundi-born tactician has filled the void created by the exit of Dimitar Pantev, who joined Simba SC in Tanzania.

In a statement, United says they settled for Niyozima, who was also working with the club’s ladies team which recently won the COSAFA Women’s Championship, after a careful analysis.

“After careful consideration, the club’s management has entrusted coach Niyozima with leading the senior men’s team with immediate effect,” the statement reads.

“A CAF A-licence holder, coach Niyozima brings a wealth of experience, tactical understanding, and deep familiarity with the Botswana Premier League and Gaborone United football culture.

“Coach Niyozima has been an integral part of the club’s technical team over the past several seasons, contributing significantly to Gaborone United’s recent success. His strong rapport with players, deep tactical insight, and commitment to the club’s values make him well-positioned to guide the team forward with confidence and continuity.”

Where was Khalid Niyozima working before?

Niyozima, who was working as the club’s goalkeeper coach, has filled the big shoes of Pantev who led United to the domestic league title paving the way for their participation in the ongoing CAF Champions League.

The Bulgarian led the Botswana giants in the first preliminary round of the Champions League where they lost 2-1 on aggregate to Simba to exit the competition. The first leg in Gaborone ended 1-0 in favour of Simba before the return leg in Tanzania ended in a 1-1 draw.