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Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE kept their Cosafa Cup hopes alive after a gritty goalless draw with Zambia at Seshego Stadium yesterday set up a decisive final group clash with Botswana.
The result leaves the Mighty Warriors second in Group B on four points, level with Zambia who hold a superior goal difference. Qualification for the semi‑finals now hinges on the final round of matches.
A victory over Botswana could send Zimbabwe through as group winners if Zambia falter against Eswatini. Should both teams win, Zimbabwe will need a strong margin to leapfrog the defending champions, while even a narrow win could still secure progress as one of the best runners‑up.
The high‑stakes encounter came hours after Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya announced a US$2 700 bonus for each player, courtesy of President Mnangagwa — a timely morale boost for the camp.
Head coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda leaned on experience, recalling goalkeeper Cynthia Shonga, while Rutendo Makore, Ethel Chinyerere and Praynance Zvawanda carried attacking responsibility.
Zambia created the clearer chances and repeatedly tested the Zimbabwe defence, but Shonga produced a string of saves to preserve the point and keep the qualification dream intact.
Sibanda admitted the physical demands of the tournament shaped her approach, making defensive adjustments after the break to manage fatigue ahead of the Botswana clash.
“We knew it would be tough. Zambia are physical and they are defending champions so they were always going to test us,” said Sibanda.
“Our changes were tactical. We had to manage energy because we are not fully fit and with only two days before the next match we did not want to overload the players.”
Despite the pressure to secure goals in the final group match, Sibanda backed her side to remain composed.
“We are in a good position to go to the next round. What we need is to stay focused and not put ourselves under too much pressure,” she said.
“We know we need goals but the plan is to stay tactically disciplined because the group is still open.”
Jesaya said the financial support followed her visit to the team camp where she assessed welfare needs ahead of the tournament.
“I promised them we would work on improving their welfare and I presented their case to the President,” she said.
“I am happy to deliver his support to the girls. Whether they win or lose, they deserve our backing.”
Zimbabwe now turn their attention to Botswana knowing their semi‑final fate will be decided by both their performance and results elsewhere in a group that remains finely balanced.
Online Reporter