Zimbabwe has remained inactive during the current international break, a development Homela described as a “virus” that has afflicted
Zimbabwean football for a long time. There is now a very short period for Zimbabwe to start preparing for the 2017 Afcon qualifiers, which begin in June.
“The technical committee is also worried about the effects of this failure to organise friendly matches for the Warriors. We have pleaded with Zifa to have friendly matches organised but we have been told there is no money,” said Homela.
“Once we get that response then our hands are tied. We have hit a brick wall. But everyone agrees that it is important for the national team to play regular friendly matches. And when there is no money in football sometimes the only option is to get out.”
The former Zimbabwe Saints defender is the vice-chairman of the committee, with Zifa board-member development, John Phiri, as head.
Homela said the functions of the committee itself were also hamstrung by a lack of funds, with the last meeting having been held last year. Zimbabwe has traditionally struggled to organise friendly matches during international breaks, which present the only opportunity for the top players to regroup outside of major tournament qualifiers.
The current state of the Warriors remains mired in confusion, with Zifa president Cuthbert Dube having purportedly dissolved the team in the aftermath of the defeat to Tanzania last year and directing the nation to focus on non-existent Under-17 and Under-20 teams.
Post published in: Football