dyton mupawaenda
Innocent Kurira-Sports Reporter
WARRIORS captain Marshall Munetsi says Lesotho will be no pushovers when they meet in a 2026 Fifa World Cup Qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Friday.
Zimbabwe will be the home side.
Speaking ahead of the clash on Friday, Munetsi said their focus is on the Lesotho game, despite a showdown against Bafana Bafana next Tuesday being the more anticipated.
“I think it’s the best time to play these games because we have had about 10 matches to recover and be able to prepare. It’s also good to be here close to home and having to play this game during the off-season,” said Munetsi.
He called on the Zimbabweans based in South Africa to come in their numbers and rally behind the team.
“It’s tough games for us. If you see, Lesotho drew with Nigeria and South Africa are ahead of us in terms of points. So every game is a challenge for us and our main focus right now is Lesotho because they are not pushovers they have a couple of guys that are playing in the South African league so they are a competitive side. I would urge those here in South Africa to come, Orlando is also my home so I know that the majority of the people will be making their way there.
Munetsi played for Orlando Pirates before moving abroad.
The Warriors held their first training session at their base in South Africa yesterday and coach Jairos Tapera says he is in the process of getting to know his team.
“I am grateful for the appointment, it’s not only for me but for Zimbabweans. It is going to be crucial for us and a very important week for Team Zimbabwe and everyone involved. We have had our first feel of the Zimbabwe team together.
“We are trying to get to know each other. As a group and as a team. Probably after a day, we will have some indications as to how we are going to play depending on the information that we will get on our opponents. I am hopeful with what I have seen and am encouraged with how the players have responded to our first training and discussions. We will take each game as it comes.
Tapera is satisfied with the attitude of the players after the first training session.
“We are still gathering information on our next opponents, which is why I said maybe after a day or so, we will have full information on them and compare with our team but I want to tell you one thing, we are here to win not only for the team but the whole of Zimbabwe. Yes, there is room for improvement but I am happy with what is going on at the moment.
“As we move forward I think things will be even better but I am happy. Let’s have patience with the team. Let’s get good results from everybody but what we want is the trust and confidence from the supporters and everyone else. We urge those in South Africa to come and support these guys. They need you to support them so that they raise their game,” said Tapera.
Online Reporter