‘We must win at home’

 

The Warriors are seeking a positive beginning in Group G in the first match of a double header that will be followed by an away game against Mozambique in a week.

Nengomasha, who is a veteran of many campaigns, expressed confidence in the newlook Warriors outfit, which includes a number of youthful players.

The Warriors midfielder believes the dream is attainable and urged his teammates to work hard if they want to make it to the finals in Brazil.

They are also scheduled to meet Egypt who complete the group later in the year, but for the experienced Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, it’s important for Zimbabwe to collect points in their first match at home.

“It is very important to start off on a high note because most of the times our downfall was that we didn’t do well at home. We need to win here because we are playing in front of our home supporters.

“Guinea are ranked higher than us and I rate them highly. We have to prepare well for them. The last time we played against them it ended in a 0-0 draw and I remember if we had won that game we could have enhanced our chances of qualification.

“We have better chances of doing well as long as we work hard. There are no more minnows in African football because if you look at what Zambia did at the Africa Cup of Nations you will find that at the end of the day nothing beats hard work,” said Nengomasha. The warriors continued with their preparations under coach Rahman Gumbo at the National Sports Stadium in the afternoon. Midfielder Khama Billiat who had sat out of the training on Monday was back in the fold despite battling an ankle injury. His chances of playing on Sunday are still hanging in the balance.

There was also bad news in the camp after France-based Ovidy Karuru was given rest after complaining of a shoulder injury.

The Warriors’ preparations have been hampered by the poor state of the pitch which needed refilling with lawn in the morning. The team could not access the venue because of the grounds work and had to train once in the afternoon.

There have been concerns about the state of the pitch at the giant stadium of late and Nengomasha also added his voice to the growing chorus.

Nengomasha made it clear that the players were more comfortable at Rufaro than at the National Sports Stadium. However, the authorities have decided against Rufaro because of its limited capacity.

“As players we have always wanted to play at Rufaro. The boys are more motivated there than at the National Sports Stadium because the playing surface is not as awkward.

“Most of the guys in the team are coming from outside the country where they play on good pitches. Fans always want to see flowing football when playing at home but that cannot happen on this pitch.

“The ball takes an awkward bounce and it’s difficult to control the ball when receiving a pass. The players said they would prefer Rufaro but if the authorities say we play here we have to adjust to the conditions fast because we need to win at the end of the day,” said Nengomasha.