Zebras edge Warriors

Sports Reporter

Botswana … (0) 1

Zimbabwe… (0) 1

(Botswana won 4-3 on penalties)

HOSTS Botswana capped off their 57th Uhuru celebrations by edging Zimbabwe’s Warriors via the penalty shoot-out in the Independence Cup match at the National Sports Stadium in Gaborone yesterday.

Castle Lager Premier Soccer League and Bulawayo Chiefs’ leading scorer Obriel Chirinda had thrust Zimbabwe into the lead in the 66th minute.

But that advantage lasted just two minutes as the Zebras levelled terms via midfielder Lemogang Maswena.

With the teams deadlocked at the end of normal time, it needed kicks from the spot to determine the winner.

The visitors Qadr Amini, Xolani Ndlovu and Peter Muduhwa found the target, while Brighton Manhire crashed his effort against the crossbar and Mthokozisi Msebe saw his effort saved by the Botswana goalkeeper.

Zimbabwe goalkeeper Donovan Bernard had tried to keep his team’s chances alive when he saved the Zebras fourth kick by defender Tapiwa Sepatela.

However, the hosts ultimately won the match.

Warriors coach Baltemar Brito was satisfied with the team’s performance.

He told Botswana TV that he was still getting to know the players.