ZIMBABWE Under-17 women’s coach Lindiwe Ndlovu is confident her side can overturn a two-goal deficit when they face Uganda in the return leg of the World Cup qualifiers on April 18, after suffering a 2-0 defeat in the first match played on home soil.
The qualifiers are part of the road to the Fifa Under-17 Women’s World Cup set to be held in Morocco in October this year, adding significance to the encounter.
Ndlovu admitted the team conceded early goals in the first encounter, but believes there were positives to take from the performance.
“Unfortunately, we lost the match 2-0,” she said.
“We conceded early goals, but there are moments where I feel the girls performed very well, and we also had a few opportunities of scoring, but we couldn’t.”
Ndlovu highlighted that defensive lapses have since been addressed as they prepare for the decisive clash away from home.
“So defensively, there are areas we have reviewed and worked on to improve.”
The coach revealed that the squad has responded positively in training following the setback and now understands what is required to get a result in Uganda.
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“The response has been positive so far, and there is a clear understanding of what is required going into the next match. I feel the girls are ready now.”
Ndlovu emphasised the importance of mental strength, noting that her players have grown in confidence after experiencing the level of competition.
“Mental strength is crucial. I feel they are now ready, since they have seen the level of competition and know they can do better than what they did in the first leg.”
She, however, acknowledged the challenges that come with playing away, particularly the unfamiliar environment and added pressure.
“In terms of environment, it might give us a challenge and pressure of playing away from home,” she highlited.
Drawing from past experience at the Cosafa tournaments, where her side bounced back from defeat to produce a commanding 12-2 victory over Lesotho, Ndlovu believes a comeback is still within reach.
“Anything is possible in football, I trust these girls in such moments,” she said.
“They can change anything. They can do wonders.”
A victory would carry added significance for Zimbabwe, as the match coincides with the country’s Independence Day celebrations.
“It will mean a lot. I feel we still have a lot to achieve. Winning will give us the opportunity to do our best.”
Ndlovu also called on supporters to continue backing the young Mighty Warriors.
“We want to appreciate their continued support.
