leeroy mupariri
Tadious Manyepo
Sports Reporter
TORRENTIAL rains in Gqeberha, South Africa have caused some logistical complications at the COSAFA Women’s Championships but the weather conditions have not deterred the Mighty Warriors’ resolve to garner the 2024 title.
Zimbabwe begin their chase for glory against Mozambique at the Isaac Wolfson Stadium this afternoon. (Kick-off 3pm).
Initially, the Group D showdown was scheduled for Gelvandale Stadium but the facility came out worst from the downpour that has seen over 200 people being evacuated from the Nelson Mandela metropolis over the past two days.
The 14-team annual tournament, which started on Tuesday will, however, continue with Isaac Wolfson, Madibaz and Nelson Mandela Bay hosting the matches.
And Zimbabwe will be looking at bettering the fourth-place finish they attained in Pretoria last year.
But they have to find a way past the group phase first beginning with a win against Mozambique this afternoon.
Only group winners in a pool that also has Lesotho will progress to the semi-finals.
That makes today’s clash against Zimbabwe’s eastern neighbours a crucial assignment for the Mighty Warriors.
Mighty Warriors chief striker Ethel Chinyerere says there is no room for them to relax in the tie.
Chinyerere is making her COSAFA bow having been ruled out of the same tournament because of injury last year.
She has been the most prolific striker in the local league over the past three years and her prowess was on full display in the Heart League Cup where she was the top goal scorer and player of the tournament after helping Chapungu Queens to glory.
“I think we are ready to rumble as the Mighty Warriors given what we put into our preparations.
“We are expecting a win when we plunge into the first game against Mozambique,” said Chinyerere.
“As a team, we have been talking about this for a long time and this is now the time for us to deliver. We know Mozambique are never going to be an easy customer but they will come at us just like we will go at them.
“It’s a match that is going to be tough but we are very confident that we will win this game and set ourselves out to win the group and advance to the semis.”
The speedster said she is raring to go and has been waiting for her chance over the years.
“Individually, I am ready to get going as I have finally found a chance to represent my country. Injuries have always dogged me and ruled me out of the national team but this time around, I thank God and I trust the same God will enable me to perform well,” she added.
“I am very happy to be part of the team and raring to go all out to help my team. “I am encouraged by the mentality on display amongst the girls. Everyone is keen and willing to make things happen.”
Mighty Warriors coach Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda said her charges are all eager to express themselves and get a result against Mozambique especially given that the squad has a clean bill of health.
