The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
NGEZI Under-19 have been plagued by injuries ahead of their Axis Super 8 Cup quarter-final clash against Golden Eagles, but their coach Klifton Kadurira believes he still has enough in the reserve tank to cause an upset on Saturday.
The two sides clash at Baobab Stadium in the third of the quarter-finals of this exciting tournament, which kicked off last weekend.
Trojan Stars host Commando Bullets in Bindura in the last quarter-final clash on Sunday.
Simba Bhora and Black Mambas are already through to the semis and will square off next weekend at Morris Depot.
Kadurira lost three key players to the first team – Ngezi Platinum Stars – after newly-appointed coach of their Premiership franchise, Benjani Mwaruwari, immediately ordered the elevation of livewire striker Takunda Benhura, Leslie Kastigu and Tinotenda Musariranwa.
He also has some players who are on the treatment table with injuries, but the former Blackpool defender remains confident his charges will rise to the occasion against their more illustrious opponents.
Golden Eagles – now under the guidance of former Warriors striker Gilbert Mushangazhike – have done well in the league and are one of the favourites to clinch the ticket to the Premiership.
“Preparations for the tie have been good, but the only challenge is that we have a thin squad because of a number of factors.
“We have three key players who have been promoted to the first team and we can only replace them when the window opens after May 1,” lamented Kadurira.
“We also have a couple of injuries, so, yeah, we will operate with a thin squad.
“However, we are looking forward to a good game. Golden Eagles are a tricky fixture so this one could be a tough adventure, but we have to do well.
“They (Eagles) have experience, but this is also a chance for our boys to prove themselves and showcase their talent.
Golden Eagles have a potential match-winner in their deadly midfielder, Claude “Pokello” Mapoka, who is usually used as an impact player.
