Mighty Warriors not taking new-look Banyana lighty

have been forced to assemble two teams for the Maputo Games and Olympic qualifiers.
The Mighty Warriors open their campaign with a clash against South Africa on September 5 in a Group A fixture before they meet Ghana two days later.
But Zimbabwe are now likely to meet a slightly different side from the one they played in the Cosafa final at Rufaro. South Africa is competing for on of the two African slots reserved for women’s football and on Saturday hosted Ethiopia in the first leg of the London 2012 Olympic qualifiers at Orlando Stadium.
They won 3-0 with former Caf Footballer of the Year Noku Matlou scoring a hattrick.
Banyana Banyana will fulfil the reverse tie on September 11 in East Africa during at a time they are expected to be taking part in their group matches of the All-Africa Games in Mozambique.
The 2007 All-Africa Games silver medallists tried without success to have Caf move their return leg against Ethiopia to a later date after it clashed with the Maputo Games.
But, now, South Africa are expected to field two teams to compete in the two tournaments.
South Africa are not taking any chances with their qualification for the London 2012 Games and even though they carry a healthy lead, they are not relaxing when they travel to Addis Ababa.
And their main focus, when the All-Africa Games explode on Saturday, would be the reverse leg of the Olympic Games qualifiers and they are likely to field their B side for the continental tournament.
But the Mighty Warriors, who leave tomorrow with Team Zimbabwe for Maputo, are unfazed by what is happening in the opposition’s camp.
“We have seen how they played against Ethiopia at the weekend and whatever team they will field against us, we will not be complacent,” said coach Rose Mugadza.
“We know that they will send a competitive side to Maputo and we are ready for any team.
“Actually it is difficult to play a team which you don’t know rather than one you know and it is good for them because they know how we play.”
Yesterday, the Cosafa champions wound up their preparations with a friendly match against men’s side, SR Villa, and managed a 1-1 draw.
The gaffer said she was happy with the levels of fitness displayed by her charges and was ready to mount a strong challenge for a semi final-place.
Zimbabwe’s last group match would be against Tanzania on September 11.
Meanwhile, the Zifa Women’s Soccer League, which resumed at the weekend, saw Black Rhinos maintaining pole position with a 5-0 victory over Faith Drive Queens.
Mufakose Queens suffered their first defeat of the season when they lost 1-0 to Inline Academy away in Bulawayo.
It was a fruitful weekend for Bulawayo teams as New Orleans also hammered Chipembere Queens 5-0 at Raylton.
Women National League
PWDLFAPTS
B/Rhinos Q541031113
In line 541015213
Mufakose Q531123410
New Orleans52301049
Cyclone Stars42111867
Cosa 42026116
Chipembere 51044123
Flame Lily 40134131
Masvingo 30021200
Faith Drive 40030210