Maintain fighting spirit, says Sibanda

RARING TO GO . . . The Zambian team arrive at the Harare International Airport yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s Africa Women Cup of Nations final qualifying round first leg encounter against Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors

Ellina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
AFTER making history by qualifying for the Olympic Games last year, Mighty Warriors assistant coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda has urged the team to maintain the same fighting spirit when they meet Zambia in the final qualifying round of the Africa Women Cup of Nations tomorrow.

Zimbabwe last qualified for the Africa Women Cup of Nations in 2004.

Sibanda said a win tomorrow will keep their campaign on track with the return leg pencilled in for Sunday at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.

“We are really prepared for it and want to come out with a good result at Rufaro. But I must admit it’s a very tough game.

“For Zambia to get to the last qualifying round they beat Namibia which means they are a good side.

Speaking soon after their arrival at the Harare International Airport yesterday, Zambia’s coach, Albert Kachinga, said they are not reading much in the past games.

Zimbabwe Squad

Goalkeepers: Chido Dzingirai (Flame Lily), Lindiwe Magwede (Cyclone Stars), Manyara Mandara (Mwenezana), Amanda Banda (Chapungu).

Defenders: Nobuhle Majika (Inline Academy), Sheila Makoto (Blue Swallows), Eunice Chibanda, Lynett Mutokuto, Patience Mujuru, Rufaro Machingura (all Black Rhinos) Ruvimbo Mutyavaviri, Florence Maponga (Mufakose), Danai Bhobho (Mwenezana).

Midfielders: Emmaculate Msipa, Viola Ndlovu, Talent Mandaza, Daisy Kaitano (all Black Rhinos), Marjory Nyaumwe (Flame Lily), Greater Bhande (Cyclone Stars), Mavis Chirandu (Weerams), Bokani Sibanda (Hwange).

Strikers: Felistas Muzongondi (Mwenezana), Erina Jeke, Samkelisiwe Zulu, Berita Kabwe (Flame Lily), Kudakwashe Basopo (Black Rhinos), Sibonginkosi Nleya (Chapungu), Priviledge Mupeti (Inline).