‘Boyz’ Moyo backs Mighty Warriors

Innocent Kurira

Zimpapers Sports Hub

FORMER Zimbabwe captain Nomsa ‘Boyz’ Moyo believes the extended training camp accorded to the Mighty Warriors puts them in a strong position as they prepare for their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations first round qualifier against Angola.

The Mighty Warriors are away for the first leg, scheduled for February 20 in Luanda, with the reverse fixture set for the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa, six days later.

Moyo might have long retired from the game, but she has been following the team’s progress.

And refreshingly for the Mighty Warriors, the newly-elected ZIFA executive committee has made them feel some love, improving their camping facilities and diet.

Nqobile Magwizi’s leadership, in keeping with their pledge to grant all national teams equal importance, has also ensured the Mighty Warriors get a prolonged stay in camp ahead of their assignments.

Moyo hopes coach Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda is using the time wisely to focus on tactics and player combinations.

“The first thing I am happy about is that they have had a long camp, which allowed the coach to fine-tune the team’s tactics ahead of this important match,’’ Moyo said.

“It was vital to have a lengthy camp, considering they have been on off-season, and fitness would be a concern.

“I believe the technical team has worked hard to address that.”

As a former leader of the team, Moyo also emphasised the importance of mental strength for the players ahead of the match.

“Going into the first leg in Angola, they should not be intimidated by anything.

“They need to enjoy themselves on the pitch, remembering they are carrying the hopes of the nation,” she said.

The Mighty Warriors have not qualified for the WAFCON since 2016, and their record at the tournament has been limited.

Their best performance came in 2000 when they finished fourth.

However, their qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympics remains a significant achievement and rare feat by a Zimbabwean team sport.

The Mighty Warriors are set to depart for Angola on February 17, ready to face a tough challenge against the Angolans.

Should they overcome the threat posed by Angola, the Mighty Warriors will go on to face another COSAFA rival, Malawi.

Sibanda, who is also the Chapungu Queens coach, yesterday named her travelling side.

She announced a squad that is a mixture of youth and experience, with veterans like Rutendo Makore, Danai Bhobho, and Emmaculate Msipa making the trip.

Zimbabwe Squad:

Goalkeepers: Vanessa Lunga, Precious Mudyiwa, Lindiwe Magwede

Defenders: Egness Tumbare, Sheila Antonio, Purity Mugayi, Nobukhosi Ncube, Alice Moyo, Fortunate Ngocho

Midfielders: Daisy Kaitano, Morelife Nyagumbo, Ennetty Chemhere, Natasha Ndowa, Danai Bhobho, Emmaculate Msipa, Mavis Chirandu, Shylne Dambamuromo

Strikers: Christabel Katona, Rutendo Makore, Ethel Chinyerere, Yolanda Kanyai, Ruvimbo Mucherera.