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Nepostism struggle in front of goal
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Zimbabwe's Young Warriors remain winless at the ongoing CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations COSAFA Qualifiers after playing out a 0-0 draw against Eswatini on Saturday.
After two group matches, the Young Warriors have yet to score, picking up only one point from six. Despite a domestic youth league forward line known for its attacking prowess, goals have eluded the national team on the continental stage.
Head coach Thulani Sibanda expressed concern over the team's finishing. "We are creating chances, but we need more confidence and maturity in front of goal. Unfortunately, Awa (Awakhiwe Tshalibe) did not start in the opening match, but when he came on today, his impact was clear. El Shaddai (Sadomba) was brilliant when he came on, but Tadiwa (Chakuchichi), our talisman, is struggling. Maybe he has a hidden injury; we need to find out," Sibanda said.
Zimbabwe's opening 1-0 loss to Mozambique coupled with the draw against Eswatini leaves the Young Warriors with a tough path to the semi-finals. They must win their final group match and hope other results go their way.
In other Group A action, Mozambique and Comoros played to a goalless draw, keeping the group standings tight.
The tournament continues Sunday with Group B and C matches, including South Africa vs. Madagascar and Zambia vs. Malawi at Heart Stadium, while Ngoni Stadium hosts Botswana vs. Mauritius and Angola vs. Lesotho.
With semi-final spots hanging in the balance, the Young Warriors will need to rediscover their scoring touch if they are to advance in the competition.
After two group matches, the Young Warriors have yet to score, picking up only one point from six. Despite a domestic youth league forward line known for its attacking prowess, goals have eluded the national team on the continental stage.
Head coach Thulani Sibanda expressed concern over the team's finishing. "We are creating chances, but we need more confidence and maturity in front of goal. Unfortunately, Awa (Awakhiwe Tshalibe) did not start in the opening match, but when he came on today, his impact was clear. El Shaddai (Sadomba) was brilliant when he came on, but Tadiwa (Chakuchichi), our talisman, is struggling. Maybe he has a hidden injury; we need to find out," Sibanda said.
Zimbabwe's opening 1-0 loss to Mozambique coupled with the draw against Eswatini leaves the Young Warriors with a tough path to the semi-finals. They must win their final group match and hope other results go their way.
In other Group A action, Mozambique and Comoros played to a goalless draw, keeping the group standings tight.
The tournament continues Sunday with Group B and C matches, including South Africa vs. Madagascar and Zambia vs. Malawi at Heart Stadium, while Ngoni Stadium hosts Botswana vs. Mauritius and Angola vs. Lesotho.
With semi-final spots hanging in the balance, the Young Warriors will need to rediscover their scoring touch if they are to advance in the competition.
Source - ZBC
