Galaxy of stars join Warriors training camp

ZIMBABWE'S Warriors finally got their preparations for their African Cup of Nations showdown underway when the bulk of their galaxy of stars joined training and the foreign-based players immediately declared that they were banking on home advantage to upstage the West Africans. The Warriors have often struggled against the Sylie National, but the current band believe they could build on their opening day 2-1 away win over Malawi to move a gear up in their quest for a place at the Nations Cup in Gabon in 2017.

As they stepped up their act after a false start on Monday and Tuesday, the Warriors reckoned that home advantage at Rufaro, which they have often turned into a fortress, will be key in securing their second win under Callisto Pasuwa in this campaign. On Tuesday, Pasuwa only had Czech-based defender Costa Nhamoinesu and five locals in training, but yesterday they resembled more of a senior team with players like Partson Jaure, Milton Ncube, Washington Arubi, Cuthbert Malajila, Khama Billiat and Eric Chipeta taking part in training.

Belgium-based forward Knowledge Musona also later arrived in the afternoon and should join his colleagues in training today. Kaizer Chiefs midfield hardman Willard Katsande, Free State Stars defender Liberty Chakoroma, Nyasha Mushekwi and Matthew Rusike, who were conspicuous by their absence, are also expected today.

Once the delay they endured at Rufaro in the morning while logistics over their new kit was being sorted out, the Warriors then got down to business before moving to Gwanzura for the late afternoon session. Mamelodi Sundowns striker Malajila, who has been enjoying scoring form at the Brazilians, said it was imperative that they win at home.