Zimbabweans have praised the Zimbabwe Warriors for their flying start in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations journey with a 3-0 convincing win over Liberia’s Lone Star in their opening Group G game at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Captain Knowledge Musona’s hat-trick ensured that the Warriors got maximum points and shoot to the top of the table on three points, the same as the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are on pole position on a goal advantage.
Norman Mapeza’s new crop of Warriors were full of energy as they defended resolutely, supported the man on the ball, and created many chances, which unfortunately were not fully taken advantage of by their strikers, particularly Orlando Pirates’ Tendai Ndoro who struggled with his game.
However, three points and a three-goal cushion was satisfactory for the caretaker coach
“We needed a win and we got it. The guys played very well and I am proud of them. However, we need to sharpen our goal target before our next game,” said Mapeza in apparent reference to the many chances they fluffed.
Warriors fans, including Curthbert Chileya, Eddison Chihota of the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association, and Chris Musekiwa said the Warriors played well and need a lot support from the government, private sector and individuals.
Warriors goalkeeper George Chigova said he was happy about the win, noting that they are looking forward for the next game.
The Warriors, however, will have to wait a bit longer for their next game as that will only come in March next year when they visit Congo Brazzaville, on the same weekend that Liberia will host the DRC.
The Nations Cup campaign is going on a break to give way to the 2018 World Cup qualifiers of which Zimbabwe are not participating after being thrown out by Fifa for failing to pay Brazillian coach Valinhos his dues when he was coach of the Zimbabwean senior national team.