Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE midfielder Prosper Padera has expressed mixed emotions after the Warriors’ frustrating goalless draw against Mauritius in their 2025 COSAFA Cup Group A opener in Bloemfontein on Wednesday.
The Warriors rookies failed to turn their dominance on the night into goals, which left them with a difficult task to try and emerge from the group stage and secure a semi-final spot.
Padera acknowledged as much but revealed that his team had vowed to shift focus to their crucial upcoming clash against South Africa tomorrow.
The hosts are also licking their wounds after Mozambique’s Mambas upstaged them 1-0 in the tournament opener.
This means that tomorrow’s game is a win or bust for the hosts while the Warriors will be hoping that Mauritius also restrict the Mozambicans, who currently have a two-point cushion at the top of the Group A long table.
Only the group winners advance to the semi-finals.
Padera, who plies his trade in Finland with that country’s top-flight side SJK Seinajoki, said they are disappointed by the result but urged fans to rally behind the youthful team.
“To be honest, it was a bit unlucky. We should’ve won that game,” Padera said.
“I think we were alright, but we should’ve done much more.”
Padera who made his first debut for the country against Mauritius said he is grateful and excited about the national team call.
“I can’t tell you how grateful I am to be called up. I’m so excited.
“I don’t know how to tell you, it’s so special. I am excited to be here,” he said.
The stalemate leaves Zimbabwe needing a strong response against hosts South Africa in their next Group A fixture.
Padera called for the fans to be patient with the squad considering they still have a lot to learn through the ropes.
“We’re still young, no one here is over 25,” he said.
“It’s hard for us to enjoy playing if you give us bad comments. Just continue supporting us and together we can make it.”
Coach Simon Marange is expected to make some tactical adjustments after the team’s struggles in the final third against Mauritius.
With South Africa also seeking redemption after their opening loss to Mozambique, the match promises to be a high-stakes affair.
Padera is, however, staying optimistic and positive.
“We don’t look back. We look forward to the next game.”
