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HOW Mine say they will not leave anything to chance as they are set to get their preparations for the Confederation Cup into full swing on Monday.
The Bulawayo side have five weeks to get their squad ready for battle ahead of their preliminary round first leg tie against Chuoni of Zanzibar on the weekend of February 7-9.
However, coach Philani Ncube does not know exactly what to expect from their opponents in the Confederation Cup since the side is still fairly new to top-flight football.
How Mine qualified for the tournament by virtue of reaching the final of the Mbada Diamonds Cup as the tournament winners, Highlanders, are serving a Caf suspension.
Chikurupati were known for their giant-killing acts last season and caused the tournament’s biggest upset by eliminating defending champions Dynamos and CAPS United along the way.
But Ncube has chosen to remain cautious. “We are venturing into unknown lands so there is need for thorough preparations. I believe we have a balanced squad of youth and experience.
“We don’t know what will happen in Zanzibar, but what I am sure of is that we are not in there to add numbers.
“It’s important that we make full use of home advantage when they come here because in football you never know what happens,” said Ncube.
If they manage to get past Chuoni, How Mine will meet the winner from the other preliminary round clash between islanders St Michel of Seychelles or ASSM Elgeco Plus of Madagascar. How Mine have vastly-experienced players in their squad.
The technical team made 12 additions to their squad after registering players such as George Magariro, James Chitereki, Tendai Ngulube, Marvel Samaneka, Nicholas Alifandika, Kuda Musharu and Courage Denias.
How Mine squad
Goalkeepers: Ephraim Mazarura, Njabulo Ncube, Donovan Bernard
Defenders: Brighton Dube, Morris Kadzola, Terrence Majo, James Chitereki, Herbert Dick, George Magariro, Gilbert Banda, Nyasha Mukumbi, Blessing Sande, Nelson Tachi
Midfielders: Tendai Ngulube, Menard Mupera, Xolisani Moyo, Warren Dube, Marvel Samaneka, Timothy January, Wonder Sithole, Nicholas Alifandika, Thembani Masuku, Donald Chiringa, Edmore Muzanenhamo, Eddie Nkulungo
Strikers: Simbarashe Sithole, Qinani Sibanda, Courage Denias, Kuda Musharu
Online Reporter