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Lovemore Dube Senior Sports Editor
ZIFA spokesperson Xolisani Gwesela has warned that there are no lightweights in African soccer ahead of the Warriors’ Afcon qualifier against Tanzania next month. Zimbabwe were paired with Tanzania in a draw held on Sunday in Cairo. They will have to cross the Tanzania hurdle if they are to proceed to the group stage where they will clash with Zambia, Cape Verde and South Sudan before the berth to the continental finals to be held in Morroco is finalised.
“We believe the Afcon draw is fair. We are also conscious that African football is evolving, hence there are no longer lightweights in this era,” said Gwesela.
He added, “Every African team is competitive, hence we encourage the technical team and the players to work tirelessly and go beyond preliminary and group stages.”
Gwesela assured the nation that Zifa were committed to servicing the Warriors in the campaign.
“We have asked the technical team to provide us with the list of players that are going to participate.
“At the same time we appeal to the corporate world to sponsor this prestigious campaign,” said the Zifa corporate affairs manager.
Zifa yesterday concluded discussions with Ian Gorowa who will continue as Warriors coach.
The former Black Rhinos player guided Zimbabwe to a historic fourth place finish in the Chan tournament finals in South Africa in February.
It was by far the best achievement by the senior national team in continental football where on previous occasions two of which were in the Afcon in 2004 and 2006, they failed to go beyond the first round.
Gorowa and lieutenants Mkhuphali Masuku, Gift Muzadzi and Callisto Pasuwa gave Zimbabweans something to believe.
There is renewed confidence in the Zimbabwe soccer brand with hopes that the business community can support the senior national team.
Online Reporter