Mighty Warriors coach Rosemary Mugadza has warned her troops not to underrate Botswana when the two teams collide in the Caf African Women’s championship first leg qualifier at the UB Stadium in Gaborone on Saturday.
Mugadza said she was aware Botswana women football standards had not reached the same levels as those of her team, but would treat the match with some caution.
“They are still building their team, but that does not mean they are not good enough to compete with us at the same level. They are a good side who are capable of getting a result especially since they will be playing at home so we will not underrate them.
“I also understand they have been in camp for two months preparing for this match, so we should be at our best if we are to beat them. Camping for such a long time just shows how much they want to make an impression in these qualifiers,” said Mugadza.
“But we have also done our part. We have been in camp since last week and I think the girls are ready for the match. The friendly match we played against South Africa last year also helped us a lot.
“What is needed now is to go there with the right attitude and play our normal game. We are going there to attack and get a result.
“I don’t believe in defending,” added the former Mighty Warriors captain.
The last time Botswana women were involved competitively was during the Cosafa Women’s Championships which was hosted and won by Zimbabwe.
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Botswana crushed out of the tournament in the first round after losing to Tanzania 3-1, South Africa 4-0 and Zambia 4-1.
Mugadza on Monday announced an 18-strong squad to travel to Gaborone. The only notable exclusions from the squad were Nokuthula Ndlovu, Lynette Mutokuto and Rufaro Machingura. Ndlovu and Mutokuto are nursing injuries while the gangly Machingura has been overlooked again due to fitness problems.
The Mighty Warriors yesterday held their last training session on home soil with a morning workout at Rufaro Stadium before an afternoon rest. The team is expected to leave for Gaborone today.
Squad: O Chingao, C Dzingirai, T Mandaza, R Mutyavaviri, P Mujuru, D Bhobho, P Masitara, N Majika, E Msipa, T Mairosi, M Nyaumwe, E Jeke, E Chibanda, S Makoto, K Bhasopo, R Makore, V Bepete, R Neshamba.
