Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWEAN football is NOT DEAD!
That is the bold message from ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi.
He was speaking at the send-off ceremony for the Under-17 and Under-20 women’s football teams in Harare yesterday.
The Under-17s fly out today for the COSAFA Championships in Windhoek, Namibia, while the U-20s are Kigali-bound for a World Cup qualifier double-header against Rwanda.
“People are shocked we even made this possible but these girls are about to shock the world!.
“Young ladies, rise up, take your stand and carry the flag. We believe in you and the whole country stands behind you.
“This is nation building.
“These girls represent all 17 million of us and that’s why we’re giving them the respect they deserve.”
The association said it’s walking the talk when it comes to backing both men and women’s teams, equal footing, equal support, equal expectations.
“We’re tired of the talk. We’re showing up with real support, not just speeches.”
Veteran coach Garthly Chipuka is back in the saddle with the U-20s after three years away from the national set-up, while Lindiwe Ndlovu will be marshalling the U-17 squad in Namibia.
Ntokoziso Moyo, the head of delegation, gave ZIFA a thumbs-up for the solid preparations and timely travel arrangements.
“We’re ready. Everything was on point on and off the pitch,” said Moyo.
“We’re laying the foundation for something bigger.
“This is about rebuilding Zimbabwean football from the ground up, starting with the girls.”
Mathew Masinge