Mighty Warriors face tough trip

By Grace Chingoma
THE Mighty Warriors might have left themselves with a tough task in the second leg in Lusaka in two weeks’ time but their slender victory against Zambia at Rufaro on Sunday sent the fans into delirium.
The team, which was backed by a capacity crowd, won 1-0 and delighted those who came to support them, including senior Government officials from across the political divide.
Vice President Joice Mujuru was the guest of honour while Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe was there to land her support.
The Mighty Warriors dismissed Chipolo-polo Queens 1-0 courtesy of an 80th minute goal by rightback Eunice Chibanda.
But this might not be enough for the team, which was given a tough ride by the visitors.
Zambia were the better side and the Mighty Warriors will have to do a lot more if they are fancying their chances of progressing to the first round where Angola are waiting in the wings.
The winner in the two-legged first round matches will book a place at the All-Africa Games in Maputo in September.
Mighty Warriors coach Rose Mugadza said her team will build on their strong second half performance in which they played like a unit.
She said they failed to click in midfield.
“Marjoury Nyaumwe and Kuda Bhasopo played while carrying some knocks. We thought the knocks were minor and they would pull through but they failed to click and we had to make changes in the second half.
“We hope by the time we leave for Lusaka they would have recovered or we will make changes to the team.
“We still have the whole week of training here and we will select the players on merit.
“We should come up with good striking combinations and I am sure they will carry the day for us in the reverse match,” said Mugadza.
The coach, who dropped her captain Nomsa “Boyz” Moyo and opted for youth, said the experience of the veteran players was still needed in the team.
“We dropped her because she lost her father and wasn’t in the right frame of mind to play but we still need her.
“If you look at Onai (Chingawo) she did well because she is now a senior player and has seen it all.
“The youngsters are doing well but need guidance from the seniors. The good thing is we have a youthful side which should become a force to reckon with in the coming years.
“If you look at Eunice, it was her first international match for the senior team, so you can see the future is really bright,” said Mugadza.
The former Mighty Warriors’ captain believes her team will progress to the final round.
“Our chances are still bright as long as we work on our midfield and strikeforce, we should win in Lusaka.
“We are rectifying our mistakes. We know the way Zambia play, they have two good players in Mupopo (Kabange) and Noria (Sosala).
“They thrive on pace but we should match them,” said Mugadza.
The team, which did not break camp, are now training at Gwanzura as they prepare to play in the natural turf at Nkoloma Stadium.