News / Local
Warriors hit rock bottom
08 Jun 2024 at 17:40hrs | Views
Zimbabwe 0 - 2 Lesotho
Zimbabwe's national football team, the Warriors, suffered a significant setback in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers after a disappointing loss to Lesotho, leaving them at the bottom of Group C with two points from three matches.
Despite high hopes and support from fans, the Warriors fell short, conceding two goals in the first half. Goalkeeper Donovan Bernard and defender Teenage Hadebe faced criticism for their performance.
The match started with promise for Zimbabwe, but Lesotho capitalized on their first meaningful attack, scoring from a corner. Despite efforts from Zimbabwe, including a shot hitting the crossbar, Lesotho extended their lead with another goal from Jane Thabantso.
In the second half, Zimbabwe improved their performance, with substitutes Tawanda Maswanhise and Tymon Machope injecting energy into the team. However, their efforts were in vain as the referee denied them a penalty and their numerous chances went unconverted.
Coach Jairosi Tapera expressed disappointment with the defensive errors that led to the goals but praised the team's improved performance in the second half. He emphasized the need for the team to gel and work on set-pieces and finishing.
Lesotho's coach Leslie Notsi acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong team like Zimbabwe but credited his team's tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on mistakes for the victory. He highlighted Zimbabwe's lack of cohesion as an opportunity for opponents to exploit.
Zimbabwe's national football team, the Warriors, suffered a significant setback in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers after a disappointing loss to Lesotho, leaving them at the bottom of Group C with two points from three matches.
Despite high hopes and support from fans, the Warriors fell short, conceding two goals in the first half. Goalkeeper Donovan Bernard and defender Teenage Hadebe faced criticism for their performance.
The match started with promise for Zimbabwe, but Lesotho capitalized on their first meaningful attack, scoring from a corner. Despite efforts from Zimbabwe, including a shot hitting the crossbar, Lesotho extended their lead with another goal from Jane Thabantso.
In the second half, Zimbabwe improved their performance, with substitutes Tawanda Maswanhise and Tymon Machope injecting energy into the team. However, their efforts were in vain as the referee denied them a penalty and their numerous chances went unconverted.
Coach Jairosi Tapera expressed disappointment with the defensive errors that led to the goals but praised the team's improved performance in the second half. He emphasized the need for the team to gel and work on set-pieces and finishing.
Lesotho's coach Leslie Notsi acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong team like Zimbabwe but credited his team's tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on mistakes for the victory. He highlighted Zimbabwe's lack of cohesion as an opportunity for opponents to exploit.
Source - newsday
