Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Germany-based midfielder, Jonah Fabisch, had his first training session with the Warriors yesterday and the 24-year-old believes Zimbabwe have the quality to cause problems for South Africa.
Fabisch, who plays for German 3 Liga side FC Erzgebirge Aue, has bounced back into the Warriors setup ahead of tomorrow’s Group C World Cup qualifier against South Africa at the Moses Mabhida in Durban.
Zimbabwe will then wrap up their World Cup qualifying campaign against Lesotho in Polokwane on Tuesday.
The Warriors anchor Group C with no win and are already out, but Fabisch has rallied his teammates to play for pride.
“At least this is my first training today (yesterday), you still probably need a few more trainings or just a few more video sessions to have the proper rhythm, the proper connections with the teammates,” Fabisch told the media.
If given the chance to play, Fabisch would want to make fans happy. His late father, Reinhard, made Zimbabweans happy back in the early 1990s when he took charge of the Dream Team project.
“I think we can do something special,” added Fabisch.
Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees, now has a full complement, that includes skipper Marvelous Nakamba, his deputy Marshall Munetsi, Teenage Hadebe, Knowledge Musona, Khama Billiat and experienced goalkeeper, Washington Arubi.
“We have defenders who like to play forward and goalkeepers who also have the eye for the midfielder.
“So, we definitely have chances to play through midfield and have combinations through the midfield. So that’s definitely a plus if you’re a player who wants the ball,” he said.
The match against South Africa might be a dead rubber for Zimbabwe but the rivalry between the two nations makes this an interesting fixture.
The Limpopo derby has always produced classic clashes between the two neighbours.
The return match ended 3-1 in favour of Bafana Bafana at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on June 11, 2024.
“You also have to have a defensive shape, have defensive intensity. And I think, yeah, that’s what we want to bring in the next match. It’s definitely an important match just because we’re playing against a good team in the World Cup qualifiers where every match matters.
“No matter in which position you are on the table, you definitely want to win. And obviously, show ourselves to the coach, to our fans, to our country, and just give our best and win the match.
“So that’s why it’s definitely important. And for me, I haven’t had much experience with the national team. So, every match is, yeah, a blessing and is worth giving your best,” said Fabisch, who could get some minutes in the upcoming games.
He added: “Yes, we just hope to make you (fans) happy, make you proud.
“And, yeah, I also hope for positive energy and positive support. I think we can do something special.”
Londile Moyo