Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba wants the Warriors picked by coach Michael Nees to represent the country at the COSAFA Cup scheduled to run from June 4 to 15 in South Africa to grab the opportunity.
Warriors Under-20 coach Simon Marange will be in charge of the COSAFA Cup team and Joel Lupahla of Simba Bhora will be his assistant.
Marange is based in South Africa where he works at Orlando Pirates.
Nakamba urged the players selected to represent the country at the COSAFA Cup to use the tournament as a stepping stone.
“I think for young players, it’s a great opportunity to play in this tournament. Before I moved to Europe, I also played in the Under-20 team, I think when I was 15 or 16.
“So, for young players, I think it’s a great opportunity for them.
“Like the coach said, every time is an opportunity for players. We have a lot of good players here in Zimbabwe and, of course, not everyone will make it.
“But those who are fortunate should make use of this chance.
“For those who are going there, I think it’s an encouragement for them to give everything, to fight for their careers and to fight for the country.
“And for me, personally, I think the competition gives hope, especially for local players who want to get a chance.”
Nees also stressed that the Warriors squad, which will play in Morocco, will not have some regular players for different reasons.
Some are on the path to recovery from injuries sustained in their leagues or others asked to be overlooked as they are resolving their contractual situations.
“We have many players who are missing, especially midfielders, it’s a challenge, but we take it with excitement. It’s a huge chance for some players, a big chance,” said Nees.
“And it’s their duty to take it. That’s competitive football, that’s competitive sports. And in a certain way, we are happy in a certain way, we are not.
“We are not happy, of course, but on the other hand, what if the situation arises in November? What if key midfielders are injured? It can happen and you need to know who you can throw into the competition. We want to prepare for any scenario.”
