The Sunday Mail
Langton Nyakwenda —
IN-FORM Zimbabwe goalkeeper Edmore Sibanda is set to guard goal for the Warriors in today’s international friendly against Zambia as he continues with his Phoenix-like rise from the ashes.
The match at the National Sports Stadium kicks-off at 3pm and the cheapest ticket is pegged at US$2.
Sibanda has been in fine form for Caps United after having been sidelined from the game during the Asiagate match-fixing storm.
The 30-year old goalie will be out to prove that he deserves the number one jersey in national team colours.
Sibanda will not be the only one out to prove a point today as interim coach Norman Mapeza has also given call-ups to several lads who have been chomping at the bit.
Devon Chafa makes a return to the Warriors more than three years after being banned by Fifa for failing a doping test.
Chafa too has been playing well for Caps United, as has Dennis Dauda, the underrated central defender.
“I am happy for this chance and have been waiting for it for some time now,” said Dauda.
Highlanders defender Peter Muduhwa is also in the mix along with Ngezi Platinum’s utility man Liberty Chakoroma.
After gathering his men in the capital on Thursday, Mapeza hammered home the need for dedication.
“I told the players what I require as a coach, which is total dedication,” he said. “I also reminded them about the importance of this game against Zambia. It is a friendly yes, but we have to take it seriously … who knows, some of the players might use this game as a springboard.”
Mapeza also took time to explain the curious case of FC Platinum goalkeeper Petroes Mhari who was somehow continually overlooked by former coach Kallisto Pasuwa despite being the best goalkeeper in the land last season.
“My choice to call in Mhari wasn’t influenced by pressure, neither was it prompted by the fact that I work with Mhari at FC Platinum … No, not at all. I just feel Mhari deserves a chance in the national team,” said Mapeza.
Meanwhile, Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda is expecting a tough encounter.
“Zimbabwe is tough, that is why I think playing Zimbabwe is a good choice,” Nyirenda was quoted saying on the Football Association of Zambia’s Twitter account. They have always given us a good run, they are playing good football. They were at the AFCON we were not there, so we have to give them the respect and the credit and I think they will give us a good match.”
