Warriors coach Rahman Gumbo has included Germany-based striker Knowledge Musona and midfielder Tinashe Nengomasha for the decisive 2013 African Cup of Nations final qualifier second leg scheduled for Luanda on October 14.
Report by Simba Rushwaya Group Sports Editor The two did not participate in the first leg which Zimbabwe won 3-1 last month after communication breakdown between Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) and their clubs.
But two players, Prosper Matizanadzo of Buffaloes and Highlanders’ Masimba Mambare will certainly be wearing big smiles after their tireless work for their clubs was noticed by the Warriors technical department.
It will be the first time that Matizanadzo fights for the national team jersey, while Mambare’s sparkling form for unbeaten Highlanders is there for everyone to see.
But there was still no place for Belgium-based midfielder Ovidy Karuru although Warriors manager Nyika Chifamba said he was still in their plans, adding that they wanted him to “settle down” at his new club OH Leuven.
Said Chifamba: “The coach wants to give a chance to local-based players to showcase their talent. Remember we have the Chan tournament coming up which will involve local players only.
“Prosper is doing very well at Buffaloes, but people overlook players like him because he plays for a small club.
“Masimba has been outstanding for Highlanders and is one of the most underrated players in the country. These are good players who deserve a chance.”
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Chifamba said he had since communicated with kingpin Musona who indicated that he will be available for the Battle of Luanda.
“I spoke to Knowledge last night (Tuesday) and he is raring to go. I have actually spoken to all the players whom the coach wants for this match individually and they are very positive.
“This is a game the nation needs to unite more than ever,” he said.
Zimbabwe, who have a healthy lead going into the Luanda tie, will qualify for the finals set for South Africa in January even if they lose 1-0 or draw against their opponents.
Warriors squad Goalkeepers: Ariel Sibanda (Highlanders), George Chigova (Dynamos), Marlon Jani (Motor Action), Maxwell Nyamupangedengu (Harare City)
Defenders: Noel Kaseke (Alki Larnaca, Cyprus), Esrom Nyandoro (Mamelodi Sundowns, SA), Onismor Bhasera (Plymouth Argyle, England), Carlington Nyadombo (AmaZulu, SA), Anorld Chaka (Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Botswana), Innocent Mapuranga (Highlanders), Patson Jaure (Dynamos)
Midfielders: Vusa Nyoni (Germinal Beerschot, Belgium), Achiford Gutu (Kalmar FF, Sweden), Denver Mukamba (Dynamos), Oscar Machapa (Moroka Swallows, SA), Tinashe Nengomasha (Wits, SA), Abbas Amidu (Black Leopards, SA) Prosper Matizanadzo (Buffaloes), Khama Billiat (Ajax Cape Town,SA)
Strikers: Quincy Antipas (Bröndby IF, Denmark), Knowledge Musona (Augsburg, Germany), Masimba Mambare (Highlanders) Takesure Chinyama (Orlando Pirates, SA), Daniel Ngoma (FC Platinum)
