This is Warriors coach Norman Mapeza’s biggest achievement since he took over as coach some six months ago. The team is now in 74th place, up from 86 in the world and 17th in Africa, up from 29 from the last rankings. And Warriors assistant coach Joey Antipas believes the rise by the team is attributed to the efforts of the technical department and the Zifa board led by Cuthbert Dube.
"This is a great achievement by the national team. As the technical team, we are proud with this achievement. It's all down to hard work and we believe Zimbabwe can be in the top 50 in the world. We also thank the Zifa board for supporting the team," he said.
FC Platinum coach Rahman Gumbo who has also coached the Warriors said the rise by the Warriors was welcome as most teams would now want to play against the national team in international friendlies.
"It's good for our football. It means Zimbabwe can now attract stronger opponents in international friendlies. The coaches have done a great job," he said.
Zimbabwe beat Zambia 2-0 at Rufaro on August 10 in an international friendly through goals by the Ajax Cape Town duo of Willard Katsande and Khama Billiat. The pair has been named in the 23 –man squad for the next Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia at the National Sports Stadium set for September 4.
Post published in: Football