HARARE-WARRIORS captain Method Mwanjali led the Warriors battle war cry as Zimbabwe clash against Mauritius in the opening Group A match of the COSAFA Castle Cup tournament at Rufaro Stadium on Saturday.This football-mad country has rarely had such an opportunity to host a football tournament, only having a sniff at the African Nations Cup in 2000 before it was taken away from them at the last minute by the Confederation of African Football (CAF)who cited ill-preparedness as the major reason for taking away the tournament.
And Mwanjali who was appointed captain to lead a crop of new players in search of regional glory was an oasis of confidence in an interview with The Zimbabwean ahead of their showdown with unpredictable Mauritius.
“We have got quality in this squad,” said Mwanjali. “We have a lot of youngsters who are hungry for success. They are talented and hardworking and morale is very high in camp. What I can say so far is that the boys are ready and football is the same all over the world.
“I know they haven’t played in the national team before, but I expect them to play like they do when playing for their clubs,” said Mwanjali.
Mwanjali who was appointed captain in the absence of Highlanders defender Gilbert Banda will be deputised by Bantu Rovers goalkeeper Washington Arubi.
“This is a great honour for me to be given the arm band to lead my country.
The coaches have shown great faith in me and I hope I can repay them by delivering.
“I’m ready for the challenge. I have been playing for the national team for quite some time and I have got the experience, I feel I can help my country win this tournament.
“The boys are ready as well and they know it’s a great opportunity to market themselves and that is a motivating factor on its own.
“It’s also a great feeling playing on home soil and it gives everyone the urge to push harder and I would want the fans to come in their numbers and support us all the way and we promise to do our best,” said Mwanjali.
The Warriors will be seeking to win their fourth regional tournament having lifted it in 2000, 2003 and 2005.
Only one team from the group qualifies for the last eight. The Warriors take on Lesotho in their final Group A match at the same venue on Monday.
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News