THE Junior Warriors defied the odds at the Fifa Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan, finishing 70 places higher than their initial ranking.
The team, which arrived back in the country yesterday, finished 107th, compared to their pre-tournament ranking of 177th.
“The finish placed Zimbabwe ahead of 82 of the 189 participating teams, providing an encouraging platform on which to build the next generation of national team players,” said Zifa yesterday.
The Young Warriors finished fourth in the six-team Group C before progressing to Tier D, where they placed 11th out of 32 teams.
The tournament’s placement format ensured that every team continued competing until the final matchday.
Following the group phase, teams were divided into six tiers according to their group positions, giving players further opportunities to test themselves against similarly ranked opposition.
“For Zimbabwe, those matches provided valuable international experience at a formative stage. The Young Warriors encountered different playing styles, faced fresh challenges and gained lessons to carry into the next chapter of their development.
“Finishing 70 places above their seeding was a milestone worth celebrating.
“It also reinforced the importance of giving emerging talent opportunities to compete, learn and grow.”
Zifa said that, with the campaign concluded, “the focus turns to building on that promise through consistent coaching, regular competition and continued support”.
Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi accompanied the team back home yesterday. – Zimpapers Sports Hub/Zifa.
