Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo ,Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE men’s national team head coach Pieter Benade is confident that his side will be able to upset Namibia when the two nations face off in the Africa Cup final in Kampala, Uganda this afternoon.
It’s a winner takes all encounter with only one ticket to the 2027 Rugby World Cup up for grabs.
Benade is unfazed with the fact that Namibia have not lost a World Cup qualifier match in over three decades.
“Namibia are a very tough opponent throughout history they have had it over the Sables. It’s up to us to really step up and challenge them. They haven’t lost a qualifying tournament for over 30 years so it’s up to us to go and take something away from someone. To do that, we need to something special,” said Benade.
Today’s game is a rematch charged with emotion and expectation.
Just last year, Zimbabwe stunned Namibia with a 32–10 win, ending a 23-year losing streak and going on to lift the Africa Cup for the first time in 12 years.
That victory rekindled belief. Benade said restoring national was and is key. He called on his charges to remember that they are playing not just for themselves but for millions of Zimbabwe.
“The main thing was restoring national pride. Making people proud of their rugby team is something that is the goal for every coach and everybody strives to do that. The boys want our citizens to be proud of us and they understand there’s a bigger thing to play for than just themselves.
“We are very proud of the effort and achievements of the squad up to this point. Reaching the second consecutive final and getting a shot at qualification takes a lot of doing,”
said Benade.
Zimbabwe were the first African team to play at the World Cup, doing so in 1987 and 1991. They are yet to feature at the global showpiece since then.
The match starts at 3pm and is available for streaming on the Rugby Africa Youtube and Facebook pages.
derick.khumalo