The Sunday Mail
AT the conclusion of Friday’s workout at the match venue, Danny “Deco” Phiri was summoned by Warriors coach Norman Mapeza to stay behind on the pitch.
The coach, together with his right hand man Tonderai Ndiraya, wanted to remind Phiri of what is expected of him during today’s match against Liberia.
The 28-year-old Phiri is one of the most experienced players in Mapeza’s squad and the coach expects him to behave like such and impose himself on the game.
“The coach has been clear on my role, he wants me to be exemplary, guiding the new players during camp.
“He also expects me to work extra hard and ensure everybody does what the coach wants during play,” said Phiri.
The 2015 Castle Lager Soccer Star of the Year has been impressed by Mapeza and says the gaffer has brought “something new” to the national team.
“He is a different coach altogether. He has brought in different tactics and wants us to do certain things which I think will work out on Sunday.
“Mapeza is a very good coach; he knows his football and the guys like it.”
With the cheapest ticket pegged at a minimum $3, Phiri believes fans will play a crucial role as the Warriors hope for a bright start to their 2019 Afcon campaign.
“What we can promise our fans is that we will try and play at the highest level but what we also want from them is their support.
“They should come in thousands and create an intimidating atmosphere for Liberia. It’s important because in modern football no team is smaller or bigger.
“Let’s not judge Liberia by their FIFA rankings or just by their name, they are also here for a fight,” warned Phiri.
The former Chicken Inn skipper made 25 appearances and played a total of 2 041 minutes for South African Absa Premiership side Golden Arrows, scoring two goals in the process.
Phiri plays alongside fellow Warrior Kuda Mahachi at Abafana Bes’Thende.
