Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira in FRANCISTOWN, Botswana
WARRIORS coach Mario Marinica says he was impressed by the clean sheet and the hunger shown by new recruits here on Saturday night.
His side powered to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Botswana in the Mukuru Four-Nation Tournament.
The hosts missed a penalty in the second half with their effort being saved by ‘keeper Elvis Chipezeze.
“I was extremely pleased we managed to keep a clean sheet even though Botswana is a very tough team.
“We tried to give other players a chance and they took it with both hands.
“I think every time you come to the national team, it is something great. I am happy with all my players.
“We are a team and we win and lose as a team.
“We got the chances and the players took them fantastically well. On that point of view, I’m extremely pleased.”
He added:
“Yes, you could say that we made it easy at some point but Botswana is not an easy team.
“They have good players, who are quite fast, and they gave us different problems in the second-half.
“On the other hand, the players did an absolutely perfect job looking at the way we started in the first-half.”
The Warriors delivered a commanding first half performance at the Obed Itani Stadium.
They put the match beyond the reach of the hosts in the first-half.
The victory secured Zimbabwe a place in the final of the tournament, where they will face Zambia tomorow while Botswana will battle Malawi in the third-place play-off.
The Warriors coach highlighted the importance of rotating the squad and giving opportunities to players who are eager to prove themselves on the international stage.
“We try to give everyone a chance and other players take that opportunity with both hands. We had a game-plan.
“The game plan worked to perfection in the first-half,” he said.
Mario stressed the value of such competitive matches in building a strong national team capable of challenging for honours.
“I think we need these types of matches more often. It’s for the benefit of every country to expose players and give them the experience needed to win major competitions.”
Mario threw rising star Mongameli Tshuma into the starting XI, after having drafted him into the team a few days ago.
Mongameli, affectionately known as “Smaller,” repaid his coach with a goal.
“I select players on merit,” said Mario.
“But when a player comes in and scores on a debut, it’s even better.
“I am happy he has integrated into the team, like all the newcomers. Some may not have played but I select all players on merit.”
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