Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
SIMON Marange, who is in charge with the Warriors squad set to compete at the COSAFA Cup, says he is bracing for the challenge.
Marange will take charge of the youngest group to ever represent the country at the tournament.
The squad boasts an average age of 21.
Zimbabwe are set to open their campaign against Mauritius on June 4 in a group that has hosts South Africa and Mozambique.
ZIFA decided to send a developmental squad to COSAFA as they seek to build an Olympic team.
Marange, who will be assisted by Simba Bhora coach Joel Luphahla, said the tournament presents a crucial opportunity for both the players and coaching staff to test themselves against good opposition.
“I’m looking forward to the competition on a personal level, going against high-level teams and coaching staff,” he said.
“For the players, it’s an opportunity to raise their hands and start accepting responsibility. As a team, we must push ourselves to the limits, learn and grow from as many moments as possible.
“We will likely be the youngest team in the tournament, something we haven’t done before.
“I expect us to play with a lot of energy, no fear.
“We will be tested but this is the best way to find out what these players are made of.”
ZIFA have taken a developmental approach to this year’s COSAFA Cup, using the tournament as a platform to groom future stars.
“I grew up watching COSAFA teams win and that was always a great feeling,” he said.
“The federation have taken a different approach this time, one that I believe in.
“We have to look at this tournament differently in terms of what it can give us and the role it plays in developing our players for the future.”
