Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda in FRANCISTOWN, Botswana
YOU have to go back 14 years, the last time Zimbabwe scored three first half goals.
That was on September 9, 2012 when the Warriors thrashed Angola 3-1 in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Harare.
Today (Saturday) at the Obedi Itani Chilume in Francistown, Zimbabwe matched that record courtesy of two first half goals by man of the moment Mongameli “Smaller” Tshuma and livewire winger Bill Antonio plus an own goal.
Zimbabwe beat Botswana 3-0 to book a spot in the Mukuru Four Nations tournament on Tuesday.
Belgium based Antonio was involved in all of Zimbabwe’s three goals and was undoubtedly the man of the match.
He spotted Tshuma inside the box early on, before he forced an own goal by a defender.
Antonio then scored after he got to the end of a pass by Macaulay Bonne in stoppage time of the first stanza.
By the time the fourth official signalled three added minutes, Zimbabwe were already 3-0 up.
Botswana were awarded a second half penalty but Elvis Chipezeze dived to the right to save Eric Ookame’s effort.
Antonio praised debutant Tshuma whose football life is changing at every moment.
“Monga (Tshuma) likes to get on to the ball, and when he does l just into space,” said Antonio who plays for Belgian top flight side KV Mechelen.
“It’s all about preparations, as a player you have to be ready to help the team.
“I just tried to give the team options upfront, today was one of the days when everything went well.
“When you get called up you need to adapt quickly.
“For tournaments like these, you want to show up,” added Antonio.
Skipper Marvelous Nakamba turned back the hands of time with a flawless show in the middle of the park.
But it was Highlanders midfielder Tshuma who once again hogged the limelight after scoring on his debut appearance.
