Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
TAWANDA Chirewa says he loves the BIG OCCASIONS.
The young forward has always shone in the big matches for the Warriors.
He scored against the Super Eagles, whom the Warriors meet in the Unity Cup semi-finals at the Valley in London tonight, the last time the two teams met in Nigeria.
“I love the occasions. I love the big games, the games in which I can showcase my talent,” he said.
Chirewa is also delighted to see new faces in the Warriors fold.
“It’s been very good to see new players, it’s been a while. It’s been good to see how we can gel together and find new patterns and rhythms so we can perform to the best of our ability on Tuesday.
“I would like to thank everyone who rallies behind us, especially those in London. In Africa, there are not many bigger teams than Nigeria.
“I hope that we can see a lot of Zimbabweans there and I can put on a show and try to get good results again.”
Chirewa, who was born in England to Zimbabwean parents, made his Warriors debut in June 2024. He has since earned 11 caps, scoring three goals. Despite his eligibility to represent England, through youth pathways, the attacking midfielder remained steadfast in his commitment to Zimbabwe.
“I could have gone the other way, but I always knew in my heart that Zim was where I wanted to be.” He reiterated his joy, in playing for his fatherland, ahead of the showdown against the Super Eagles.
Chirewa said playing for the Warriors is a dream come true. “Playing for Zim is a dream come true. Since I was young, I have desired to play for Zim.
“Even though, maybe, I couldn’t play for Zim, I could have gone the other way and tried to go through the academy of England and the age groups but I always knew in my heart that Zim was where I wanted to be.
“Zim has always given me a chance to showcase my abilities to the world.
“Even, though at club level I haven’t got the amount of games I wanted, Zim has always given me my chance. So, I am forever grateful to Zim and I can assure you that on Tuesday, you will see something.
The four-nation tournament also features Jamaica and India and carries Tier 1 FIFA status, meaning matches will count towards world rankings.
“Playing for the Zimbabweans in London, near to where I grew up, is amazing,” he said.
“I hope that we can see a lot of Zimbabweans there and I can put on a show.”
