Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER a tense standoff that nearly derailed their plans, the Warriors have shifted their focus to this evening’s international friendly against Niger at Stade Père Jégo in Casablanca, Morocco. Kick off is at 6pm.
The match had been plunged into uncertainty on Monday after players threatened to boycott unless outstanding appearance fees were paid. However, the impasse was resolved late yesterday following negotiations between the players and ZIFA leadership.
ZIFA has since paid each player the remaining US$1,000 balance of the US$2,000 appearance fee promised for the two friendlies against Burkina Faso and Niger. Only four players are yet to receive their balances due to logistical delays, but the association has assured that these payments are being processed.
The crisis had threatened to overshadow the ongoing efforts by coach Michael Nees and his technical team to build a competitive side ahead of World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
In the wake of a 2-0 loss to Burkina Faso, Nees has rung the changes for the Niger clash, with goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze prefered in the starting XI ahead of Washington Arubi.
Promising England based youngster Sean Fusire, who came off the bench in the previous match, is rewarded with a starting berth in midfield.
The rest of the line up blends experience and youth, as the German coach continues assessing combinations.
Zimbabwe Starting XI vs Niger:
Elvis Chipezeze
Gerald Takwara
Bill Antonio
Tino Kadewere
Teenage Hadebe
Emmanuel Jalai
Isheanu Mauchi
Jonah Fabisch
Sean Fusire
Tawanda Macheke
Tawanda Maswanhise
Despite the financial hiccup, ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi has maintained that the association is committed to fulfilling its obligations and rebuilding trust with national team players.
With the payment dispute temporarily resolved and morale stabilised, all eyes are now on the pitch as Zimbabwe look to bounce back from their defeat and give fans something to cheer about.
