Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Mighty Warriors could not have responded better to Government’s financial boost than a hard-fought goalless draw against Zambia in the COSAFA Cup at Seshego Stadium yesterday.
Going into the match, Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Honourable Emily Jesaya made the announcement that the Mighty Warriors will be pocketing US$2 700 each courtesy of President Mnangagwa.
While ZIFA will still pay the players’ allowances, appearance fees and winning bonuses, the move shows the President’s fairness at a time the male football team, the Warriors, and other national teams, have also benefited from similar support.
And as they took to the field, for the high-stakes clash against Zambia, the team fought like real Warriors.
Head coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda banked on experience, deploying seniors to do duty.
Goalie Cynthia Shonga returned, while the trio of Rutendo Makore, Ethel Chinyerere and Praynance Zvawanda led from the front. Daisy Kaitano, Egness Tumbare and Shiela Antonio provided shield to Shonga.
However, the Zambians looked more dangerous upfront, as they countlessly breached the Mighty Warriors’ defence only for Shonga to save the day.
Sibanda was to make some tactical changes in the second half, introducing more defensive minded players to atleast settle for a point.
“We knew it would be a tough match, Zambia are good, they are very physical, and the fact that they are defending champions obviously meant they would give us trouble,” said Sibanda.
“Our changes were tactical, we had to reserve energy . . . we are not fully fit so with just two days to rest before our games against Botswana, we did not want to really overload the players.”
Zimbabwe are on second position in Group B with four points, along with Zambia, who have a superior goal difference.
A win against Botswana, provided Zambia lose to Eswatini, takes Zimbabwe to the semis as the top-placed side in their group.
However, if Zambia also win their fixture, Zimbabwe will need more goals to go top while a small-margin victory takes them to the knock-out round as the best overall runners-up.
“We are already in a good position to make it to the next round so what we need to do now is to remain focused and not pressure ourselves that much,” added Sibanda.
“We need the goals but we are not under pressure, our plan is to be up there tactically to stay in the game because as it is, the group is still open.
“Overally I am happy with how the girls have carried themselves and being able to stand the competition against other nations whose leagues are running while we are just coming from offseason.”
Deputy Minister Jesaya, who delivered the good news before the game, said she got clear of the needs of the Mighty Warriors when she visited them in camp before departure. She then approached the President, and Betterbrands Group came on board to support the initiative.
“Just as I had promised them that we needed to improve their welfare, I went to the President and presented their case,” said the Deputy Minister.
“I’m glad we have a listening President, he came through, and I’m here to deliver his gift to the girls . . . whether they win or lose, the girls are entitled to our support.”
