adminEllina Mhlanga Harare Bureau
THE Mighty Warriors resumed training yesterday at Rufaro after boycotting Tuesday’s sessions demanding their outstanding bonuses dating back to last year.
The senior women national team takes on Cote d’Ivoire in the Olympic Games qualifiers first leg tie this Sunday at Robert Champroux, Abidjan, and they are expected to leave for West Africa.
Yesterday they had their training session in the morning at Rufaro before training again in the afternoon with a friendly match against LM Auctioneers men’s team.
Coach Rosemary Mugadza said the sit-in by the players on Wednesday affected their plans but they were happy the players decided to resume training yesterday.
“We trained in the morning as well as in the afternoon and this is our last session because we are leaving tomorrow (today).
“I am happy that, at least, they have changed their attitude and we hope that they carry on with the attitude they have today until we play Cote d’Ivoire.
“In terms of their fitness level it affected us. As the technical team we were not happy, but there was nothing we could do.
“We thought, at least, they could have trained the whole of yesterday and make sure they have their grievances addressed when we come back from Cote d’Ivoire.
“But as players they have their captains and they can do whatever they want. So we could not convince them to train,” said Mugadza.
Mugadza said the friendly match was meant to compensate for the lost time.
“We played boys today, it was to push them for the day that they lost yesterday and they are willing to work hard.
“The first team conceded two goals and the last team conceded just one goal that shows that our level of fitness is improving and we are hoping for the best
“Cote d’Ivoire are going to come on us and we have done our homework knowing the formation that they use when attacking.
“When you are playing away you hope for the best.”
Cote d’Ivoire were at the Women’s World Cup and last year they took part in the African Women Championships and they are the favourites going into this match.
However, Mugadza said the fact that they were underdogs was an advantage for her side.
“It’s going to be a very difficult game as they have played at the World Cup and they will be hungry to, at least, maintain that record to be amongst the best teams in Africa,” Mugadza said.
Zimbabwe Women Football board member competition, Cecilia Gambe, yesterday confirmed that the team was expected to head for Cote d’Ivoire today.
“Yes, the team is going tomorrow but I am not sure what time,” Gambe said.
Online Reporter