The Young Warriors under-17 are the current champions of the Confederation of Southern African Football Association (COSAFA) having beaten the same South African juniors 5-3 on penalties in the COSAFA final held in Windhoek, Namibia last December. Zimbabwe, has so far proved beyond doubt that they are the their own masters in terms of grooming juniors of international standards following another impressive showing by the under-20s, who won the COSAFA regional grouping in Mpumalanga in December again. Despite a dubious penalty taken twice by the hosts, the Young Warriors did not lose focus and concentration. Amajita, as the South African juniors are called, converted from this dubious spot kick through Itumeleng Ramokone. But the Zimbabweans re-organised themselves in midfield, defence and upfront. As well as excellent team work, the Young Warriors boasted skillful individual strikers and midfielders. The Young Warriors are preparing for both World and Africa Youth championship for early next year.
Line-Up:
South Africa:
A. Marosha, J. Bowers, S. Mohlaka, X. Mdaki, I. Ramokone (K. Khumalo 65th minute), K. Ratau, S. Ngwazi (S. Zuma 46th minute), L. Moloto, L. Masalesa, M. Gopane (Z. Zungu 69th minute), J. Nozozo (M. Masusku 46th minute).
Zimbabwe:
S. Maponga, H. Murongazvombo, T. Charakupa, M. Kadzola, K. Machona, Y. Chapfika, B. Katsaruware, A. Gutu, S. Tuboyi (B. Manjengwa 54th minute), M. Rusike (R. Lunga 76th minute) , N. Tshuma – CAJ News
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News