The Sunday Mail
Ralston Muchoko
MIGHTY Warriors gaffer Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda has decided to err of the side of caution and should name an unchanged side for two today’s clash against Namibia at Rufaro.
Zimbabwe carries a healthy two-goal cushion, heading into their return leg of the Africa Women Cup of Nations qualifiers first round tie against the Brave Gladiators of Namibia, after goals from Marjory Nyaumwe and Mavis Chirandu during Thursday’s clash at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek, Namibia.
However, despite the tedious journey back which saw the team arrive back Friday night, Sibanda was impressed by the team’s fluidity and attacking prowess and has refused to tinker too much with what appears to be a winning formula.
“The competition against Namibia was hard-hitting and the Brave Gladiators seemed to be more prepared for the match than us,” said Sibanda.
“The pressure started building on our side because Namibia gave us a good run, but thankfully my ladies managed to build a good strong defensive tactical awareness, which led us to our victory,” she said.
Both teams had light sessions yesterday, with the Mighty Warriors taking to Rufaro last night, during which Kwinji 15 said she is hesitant to make any hasty changes.
“Barring any late injuries, the team is not going change much as one wants the combinations that worked in Namibia to work here again.
“We seemed to be successful at containing them in Namibia, and this helped us attack more freely and more purposefully; something I hope the girls can emulate today,” she said.
Sibanda believes that home advantage will also count.
“We have home advantage, playing at Rufaro Stadium, which most of our players are familiar with.
“We have a chance now and this is the time to make a way up.
“It’s going to be tough for Namibia at Rufaro because we have home support from the nation at large cheering us”.
