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GIFFORD and Masotsha High Schools are ready to represent Bulawayo Metropolitan in the “Crazy for Good” Copa Coca-Cola Under-16 boys and Under-17 girls’ national soccer championships at Sakubva High School in Mutare beginning on Friday. Bulawayo Under-16 boys champions Gifford are drawn in Pool B with Gaza and Hwange High Schools, while girls’ champions Masotsha are in Pool C with Sodibury and Mbare High Schools.
Masotsha and Gifford High Schools will travel to Mutare on Thursday to take part in the Copa Coca-Cola finals.
Gifford will clash with Christian Brothers College (CBC) in a friendly encounter tomorrow as part of their preparations.
Coach Nathan Tshuma said the preparations are at advanced stage and is promising a better performance than at the provincial finals.
“We are just working on finishing and new techniques’ on attack, as we hope to bring the trophy home and make Bulawayo proud,” said Tshuma.
Bantu Rovers starlet and Gifford captain Bukhosi Sibanda is tipped to shine and lead other youngsters to the final.
Masotsha High School girls coach Banele Bhebhe said there has been improvement in his camp, especially among the strikers after they found goals hard to come by at the provincial finals.
“There has been much improvement especially among strikers as Sipho Gumede has been free-scoring in practice sessions, I hope it will end our goal drought,” said Bhebhe.
Bhebhe though optimistic that his girls would do well in Mutare, felt they have a challenge as most of Harare schools ply their trade in provincial leagues.
“It is tough as other schools are playing in provincial leagues compared to us, but it will be a battle between us and them,” said Bhebhe.
Meanwhile, Mahatshula Primary School hosted the Ingwebu Under-14 boys’ cluster championships yesterday.
Mahatshula Primary School progressed to the district competition on 12 July after thrashing Cement Siding 6-0 and drawing 0-0 with Induna Primary School.
Induna and Cement Side Primary School drew 0-0.
Online Reporter