Never since 2006 have the Warriors come closer to qualification than they have done now but a 2-0 or more loss scoreline in favour of the hosts could spell another disaster for a Warriors side that is leading 3-1 from the first leg in Harare.
That said and done, all ears and eyes will be on the match in Luanda as Zimbabweans from all walks of life will be waiting patiently for the final result which they hope will be a draw or a win for the Warriors.
Coach Rahman Gumbo has the whole of this week been telling his players to go forward and multiply the goals, and Sunday he will know whether that gospel of fast attacking soccer managed to sink into his players heads.
Zifa president Cuthbert Dube has warned against complacency and Gumbo has the best team available which will also be motivated by the $10 000 offer Zifa have placed on the table for each player for qualification.
Gumbo has, with the blessing of Zifa, travelled with all the 31 players in camp, with the final 18 expected to be announced after Saturday’s final training session.
Knowledge Musona is certain of a striking role and Gumbo still has the likes of Khama Billiart, Kingstone Nkata, Cuthbert Malajila, Edward Sadomba, and Takesure Chinyama to choose for the other striking places depending on the formation he will opt for.
Tinashe Nengomasha has returned to give guile to the midfield and is likely to play alongside Esrom Nyandoro and Archieford Gutu in a more defensive midfield.
The defence was not at its best against the Black Antelopes in Harare, giving away that vital goal to Angola and much is expected from the likes of Carrington Nyadombo, Lincoln Zvasiya, Vusi Nyoni, Oscar Machapa, and Noel Kaseke as Angola’s top striker Manucho used as a substitute at Rufaro is likely to start alongside Jalma.
In the past, Zifa have been blamed for Zimbabwe’s failure due to poor organisation and inadequate funding, but they have this time around done their best and it is now left for the Warriors to deliver.
Should they fail to make the trip to South Africa, the Warriors will have no one to blame but themselves.
Post published in: Football