Collen Nikisi, FC Platinum Correspondent
HARARE – Zimbabwe coach Norman Mapeza believes the team is mentally prepared and ready ‘for a difficult but not impossible challenge’ against Ghana in their 2022 World Cup qualifier on Saturday at the Cape Coast Stadium.
Zimbabwe has collected a single point from their opening two matches in Group G while the Black Stars of Ghana have collected three points and remain favourites to advance from the pool.
However, Norman Mapeza is optimistic the Warriors can get a positive result away especially with captain Knowledge Musona in the mix.
“We have to be ready, we have no choice. There were a few concerns at training as the pitches were sub standard. We have done three training sessions so far. You can imagine the best training ground we were offered the grass was not cut and it was at knee level.
“We just have to manage the situation that is obtaining but am happy with the commitment, attitude and desire shown by the guys,” said Mapeza.
FC Platinum vice captain Kelvin Madzongwe who is with the squad in Ghana opined.
“There is excitement in the camp. The technical team has pushed the team hard, in a good way and the players have responded positively to the coach’s philosophy, his way of thinking and playing football. Mentally the team need to get into the zone.
“Players are happy to be representing their country at the highest level and there is a glimmer in the eyes of everyone,” said Madzongwe.
Meanwhile, Volta International Sports Academy manager Ishmael Amagatse Kwashi of Ghana thinks Zimbabwe stand a chance.
“It will be difficult for Ghana to win against Zimbabwe, we have changed coaches Charles Akonnor was replaced by Milovan. Milovan has gone on to make changes to the team bringing in a lot of new faces.
He has brought in Jojo Wallocot of Swindon, Joseph Aidoo of Celta Vigo and Benjamin Tetteh of Yeni Malatyaspor to mention but a few.
“Let me also tell you that our first choice goalkeeper Richard Ofori is not available and our strike force is blunt.
“The Sports ministry and Ghana FA are on each other’s throat and the contentious one is on the appointment of Milovan. So with all this I think it will be difficult for Ghana to beat Zimbabwe,” said Kwashi.
The Ghana-Zimbabwe match will be played at 6pm and hopefully the Warriors would have acclimatised to the hot humid temperatures.
Zimbabwe (Predicted Line up) vs Ghana:
Washington Arubi, Tendayi Darikwa, Onismor Bhasera, Brendan Galloway, Teenage Hadebe, Marshall Munetsi, Marvellous Nakamba, Jordan Zemura, Knowledge Musona, Perfect Chikwende, Knox Mtizwa
Go Warriors Go!!
