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Tadious Manyepo Sports Reporter
ON one hand, Tino Benza is disappointed that he won’t be part of the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final story this weekend.
On the other, Tino is on verge of a maiden Warriors cap.
His chances of defending the Chibuku Super Cup golden boot accolade, which he won last year, have been minimised and will be totally erased if his club Herentals bite the dust against Ngezi Platinum Stars.
The clubs face-off in the Chibuku Super Cup last eight showdown at the National Sports Stadium on tomorrow.
But Tino, who otherwise would have been one of the main actors in this match, won’t be part of the proceedings at the giant venue as he is part of the local ensemble of the Warriors scheduled to play Botswana in Gaborone this afternoon.
The match is part of Botswana’s commemorative events as they celebrate their Independence Day.
And for the 22-year-old, this is a chance to prove his mettle.
Along with teammate Davison Marowa and defender Clive Mandivei, Benza is making his senior national team debut this afternoon.
“Being called for the national team is a tremendous dream,” said Benza.
“I would have wanted to play a part in the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final against Ngezi Platinum on Sunday but obviously my country comes first.
“I am very happy to be in the national team and I am ready to give it my all in my debut appearance for the national team.
“I am happy to share the change room with some of the best players we have in our local league. I believe this is an opportunity for some of us to show what we can do for the national team”.
With six goals and as many assists in the league this season, Benza is hoping to take the same form into the national team.
“This has been one of my best seasons since our promotion into the league in 2018. Everything has been coming out perfectly well for me.
“I believe it is possible for me to take the same club form into the national team. I am one of the debutants in this senior squad and that’s motivating me a lot. “Botswana have a very good team and the competition is worth experiencing. I am ready to play my part and help the team win against Botswana.
“I know it won’t be an easy game playing away from home but we should try by all means to come out tops”.
The Warriors held their first training session in Botswana on Thursday having arrived late on Wednesday.
Online Reporter