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Mighty Warriors Heading Home After Poor Showing At Brazil Olympics


The Mighty Warriors heading home after dismal but spirited performance at Rio Olympics.
The Mighty Warriors heading home after dismal but spirited performance at Rio Olympics.

Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors are heading home Thursday after losing 6-1 to Australia on Wednesday in a 2016 Rio Olympics game in Brazil.

The team was thrashed by Germany 6-1 then Canada 3-1 before Wednesday’s disastrous match against Australia.

Some Mighty Warriors fans have come to their defense citing poor training and lack of financial support needed for the women's team to prepare adequately for the world's top showcase at which they played teams that specialise in the sport.

"Zimbabwe's women work at other jobs and only come together for training while other teams like Australia, Canada and Germany live and breathe soccer. It's their profession and they have the adequate support they need from their governments.

"The fact that the Mighty Warriors managed to go to the Rio Olympics was testimony enough of their dedication despite the hurdles they faced to get there," said Moira Tsanga, who has been following the team's performance.

At the same time, Zimbabwe Olympics press officer, Merit Munzwembiri, said all eyes are now on gold medalist Kirsty Coventry who takes to the pool Thursday seeking a place in the finals in her signature event - the 200 meter backstroke.

"We are however not putting pressure on her as she has some tough competitors in the race as the swimmers are getting younger and faster each Olympic (Games)," said Ms. Munzwembiri.

She said the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee had resolved that all athletes who failed to qualify would be returning home after their performances. The other country's performers are still in Brazil after finishing their performances to rally their countries on.

Zimbabwean equestrian, Camilla Kruger based in the United Kingdom and her horse, are also expected to return home. Shooter Michael Nicholson will also be heading back home after finishing 19th in his event Wednesday.

Zimbabwe representative in archery Gavin Sutherland is also heading home.

Micheen Thornycroft is expected to participate in her rowing qualifiers this weekend and is one of Zimbabwe's medal hopefuls.

"We are hopeful that Micheen will advance into the finals and bring home a medal. She looks set to cause an upset as her performance to date has been very impressive," said Munzwembiri.

America currently leads on the medals tables with 28 medals with Zimbabwe yet to pick up their first.

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