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Eddie Chikamhi Senior Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe national football team looked in high spirits when they wrapped up their last training session at the National Sports Stadium this morning in preparation for the crucial 2022 World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
The Warriors are scheduled to host Bafana Bafana in a Group G match, which will be played behind closed doors because of the Covid-19 health protocols.
ZIFA are yet to provide details whether the match will be broadcast on television.
Warriors coach Dzravko Logarusic and his team had the last feel of the match venue and the players looked in good spirit. The coach, however, said after the morning training session that the preparation had not been smooth-sailing. The Croatian said he was dealt a huge blow after he failed to get 10 players from his original selection.
“We have to find a way how to manage the match and how to come up with positive results. I don’t have the starting eleven yet, I have 23 players and each of them has to show that they deserve the Warriors jersey.
“Now some players have the chance to show themselves. If they show themselves, they are welcome but if they don’t then that means that’s not the standard we want.
“I am assuring you, all of us will put 100 percent, for sure with this atmosphere and with what we are going to make a positive result. It doesn’t matter how big the challenges we are facing,” said Loga.
The Warriors, who started training on Tuesday, had at least three full days to prepare for the game. Their opponents, South Africa, who arrived yesterday, are expected to have their feel of the venue later in the afternoon.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwean referee Brighton Chimene will be the man in the middle today when Madagascar host Benin in Antananarivo in Group J of the World Cup qualifiers.
The 31-year-old international referee will be assisted by compatriots Brighton Nyika and Thomas Kusosa, with Prince Mathumo as fourth official.
South African Enock Tshotleho Molefe was appointed referee assessor.
Warriors squad
Goalkeepers:
Washington Arubi, Talbert Shumba, Martin Mapisa
Defenders:
Onismor Bhasera, Divine Lunga, Takudzwa Chimwemwe, Alec Mudimu, Godknows Murwira, Kelvin Moyo, William Stima
Midfielders:
Blessing Sarupinda, Jona Fabisch, Marshall Munetsi, Tafadzwa Rusike, Thabani Kamusoko, Kudakwashe Mahachi, Khama Billiat, Perfect Chikwende, Ishmael Wadi, Farai Madhanaga, Silas Songani
Strikers:
Terrence Dzvukamanja, Tinotenda Kadewere, Knowledge Musona (captain).
Bafana Bafana squad:
Goalkeepers:
Ronwen Williams (Supersport United), Veli Mothwa (AmaZulu), Bruce Bvuma (Kaizer Chiefs).
Defenders:
Sydney Mobbie (Mamelodi Sundowns), Rushine De Reuck (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thapelo Morena (Mamelodi Sundowns), Siyanda Xulu (Hapoel Tel Aviv, Israel), Njabulo Ngcobo, Thabani Dube (Kaizer Chiefs), Sibusiso Mabiliso (Kaizer Chiefs).
Midfielders:
Sipho Mbule (Supersport United), Teboho Mokoena (Supersport United), Mothobi Mvala (Mamelodi Sundowns), Yusuf Maart (Sekhukhune FC), Ethan Brooks (TS Galaxy), Njabulo Blom (Kaizer Chiefs).
Strikers:
Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Maritzburg United), Gift Links (Aarhus GF, Denmark), Evidence Makgopa (Baroka FC), Victor Letsoalo (Bloemfontein Celtics), Percy Tau (Al Ahly, Egypt), Luther Singh (F.C Copenhagen, Denmark).
Online Reporter