Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda in FRANCISTOWN, Botswana
FOR someone like Jeremiah Jonga, a Zimbabwean who has spent the last 28 years in Botswana, the Warriors’ emphatic 3-0 win against the Zebras on Saturday evening invoked some good memories.
The Warriors are in Francistown where they will play Zambia in the Mukuru Four Nations final at Obedi Itani Chilume on Tuesday.
Zimbabwe’s visit here has reconnected thousands of Zimbabweans based in Francistown with their motherland.
“I have been living here in Botswana for almost 30 years and I rarely go back to Zimbabwe.
“So, the coming of the national team to Botswana is a good opportunity for us to meet up with people from back home,” said Jonga, at a local shopping centre called Area L.
Zimbabwean fans who travelled to support the national duty brought the place to a standstill on Saturday.
Hundreds of fans including the usual faces like Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, Richard “Chemhofela” Sande and Ogriva “Ogege 88” Jeure have been creating a carnival atmosphere here in Francistown with their antics.
Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association president Joseph Mutawu is also among fans rallying the Warriors.
“We are very happy, very ecstatic about Saturday’s win.
“The boys played very well and we are 100 percent behind them,” Mutawu told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
“Now the boys must maintain the momentum.
“But, above all the hospitality here is perfect, it’s like we are at home,” added Mutawu.
“We are now looking forward to the finals on Tuesday and we will be behind the Warriors.
Warriors Bulawayo Chapter member, Shamiso Ncube, hailed supporters for sacrificing their resources.
“Zimbabwe were just too good for Botswana and they have made this trip exciting.
“Much credit goes to Marvellous Nakamba, the captain, who showed that he’s a true leader by leading by example.
“And also the new boy Mongameli Tshuma, a new boy, he proved coach Marian Marinica did not make a mistake by calling him up,” said Ncube.
Tshuma scored on his debut and had a decent show.
The Highlanders star is undoubtedly the man of the moment.
“Supporters also played a key role of cheering the players through-out the game.
“Fans came from different areas including Bulawayo and Harare.
“They are using their own resources and this should be applauded,” said Ncube.
Francis Kaowa is happy to reconnect with relatives and friends based in Francistown.
“As they say, football unites people.
“It also connects people.
“I have been meeting friends and relatives here. They are happy because some of them haven’t been home for a long time,” said Kaowa.
“I’m happy for our coach. I’m happy for the ZIFA executive led by Nqobile Magwizi.”
