Innocent KuriraZimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO Chiefs are relishing the challenge of facing champions Scottland in the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup quarter-finals at Rufaro on Sunday.
The Ninjas booked their place in the last eight after beating Chili FC 2-0 in the previous round.
They now face a Scottland side who have established themselves as one of the leading forces in the country.
Chiefs’ coach, John Nyikadzino, said his charges were ready to test themselves against the champions.
“We have been preparing well for this match and we know what awaits us.
“We know the quality of the team we are going to face and the kind of challenge that comes with playing a team like Scottland.
“We have to make sure that we prepare properly because this is a different game.
“It is a Cup game and there is a place in the semi-finals at stake.
“We know what is required from us and the players are looking forward to the challenge.”
Scottland enter the contest after an emphatic 6-0 demolition of MWOS Under-19 in the last 16, underlining the attacking threat Chiefs will have to contain.
However, Chiefs have also shown their ability to negotiate knockout football and will head to Rufaro hoping to produce another disciplined performance.
“We know the game will not be easy but these are the games that you want to play in,” said Nyikadzino.
“We have to go there and compete. We have prepared for what we are going to face and now it is about going onto the pitch and executing what we have been working on.”
Pressure will be on Scottland to justify their status as one of the favourites to win the tournament.
The other quarter-final ties will see CAPS United taking on FC Hunters at Rufaro on Saturday.
Hardrock take on Herentals on Sunday at Chahwanda while Blanket Mine meet FC Platinum at Phelandaba in Gwanda.
