Moyo backs Mighty Warriors ahead of crucial Angola clash

FORMER Mighty Warriors captain Nomsa “Boys” Moyo believes the extended training camp for the Mighty Warriors puts them in a strong position as they prepare for their first round qualifier against Angola for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

The first leg is scheduled for February 20 in Luanda, with the return leg set for six days later at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa.

Moyo, who has been following the team’s progress, feels the prolonged camp will be crucial to their performance.

She hopes coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda is using the time wisely to focus on tactics and player combinations.

“The first thing I am happy about is that they have had a long camp, which allowed the coach to fine-tune the team’s tactics ahead of this important match. It was vital to have a lengthy camp, considering they have been on off-season, and fitness would be a concern. I believe the technical team has worked hard to address that,” Moyo said.

As a former leader of the team, Moyo also emphasised the importance of mental strength for the players ahead of the match.

“Going into the first leg in Angola, they should not be intimidated by anything. They need to enjoy themselves on the pitch, remembering they are carrying the hopes of the nation,” said Moyo.

The Mighty Warriors have not qualified for the Afcon since 2016, and their record at the tournament has been limited, with their best performance coming in 2000 when they finished fourth.

However, their qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympics remains a significant achievement.

Under the leadership of new Zifa president, Nqobile Magwizi, the team has received increased support, raising hopes that the Mighty Warriors will get the backing they need to succeed in the qualifiers.

The squad is set to depart for Angola on February 17, ready to face a tough challenge against the Angolans.

Zimbabwe will face Malawi if they get past the Angola hurdle.
Sibanda named her final squad for the match yesterday.

The squad has a mixture of youth and experience with veterans like Rutendo Makore, Danai Bhobho and Emmaculate Msipa making the squad.

Zimbabwe Squad
Goalkeepers:
Vanessa Lunga, Precious Mudyiwa, Lindiwe Magwede

Defenders:
Egness Tumbare, Sheila Antonio, Purity Mugayi, Nobukhosi Ncube, Alice Moyo, Fortunate Ngocho

Midfielders:
Daisy Kaitano, Morelife Nyagumbo, Ennetty Chemhere, Natasha Ndowa, Danai Bhobho, Emmaculate Msipa, Mavis Chirandu, Shylne Dambamuromo

Strikers:
Christabel Katona, Rutendo Makore, Ethel Chinyerere, Yolanda Kanyai, Ruvimbo Mucherera.
-@innocentskizoe