adminFROM Melody Gwenyambira in Lusaka, Zambia
MIGHTY WARRIORS assistant coach Johannes Chikaola says the national team has a “perfect solution” to the danger posed by Zambia whom they face in an Olympic Games qualifier at Nkoloma Stadium here this afternoon. Chikaola hinted that part of the solution hinged on how they contained the dangerous Kabange Mupopo.
“Mupopo is very fast so we have strategised that we will have two people marking her in the game. One from the front, one from behind. She is the only problem that we have when we face Zambia so containing her will see us sailing through,” said Chikaola.
Mupopo is a tricky customer who has also represented her country in athletics.
She became a footballer after winning several accolades on the athletics track.
“We are confident of winning and we have had time to work out with the girls. They are all aware of what they have to do. We know that the nation is expecting a positive result and we are ready to deliver,” added Chikaola.
With the experienced Promise Chatsamwa from Black Rhinos in their ranks Zimbabwe is hopeful for a favourable result.
Chatsamwa says she is ready to deliver on the big stage.
“It’s the same experience I have at Black Rhinos that I am taking into the national squad. I am well prepared and I am sure if we work as a team we will win,’’ said Chatsamwa.
Shepolopolo played several friendlies in the buildup to today’s tie while the Mighty Warriors, who had a feel of the match venue yesterday afternoon, had to make do with playing local sides.
Zambia coach Albert Kachinga told local media that his team would not underrate the Mighty Warriors despite going into the match as favourites.
“Zimbabwe are a good side and we have to be on top of our game if we are to beat them,” Kachinga was quoted as saying.
Zim Squad
Chido Dzingirai, Process Chatsamwa, Patience Mujuru, Sheila Makoto, Moleen Murandu, Lynette Matukutu, Nobuhle Majika, Emmaculate Msipa, Talent Mandaza, Rejoice Kamupfumvuti, Berita Kabwe, Samukelisiwe Zulu, Mavis Chirandu, Felistas Muzongondi, Marjory Nyaumwe, Rudo Neshamba, Tafadzwa Tsunguro.
Online Reporter