Zimbabwe, Zambia set for Mukuru Four-Nation final showdown
Hope
Zimbabwe will face Zambia in the final of the Mukuru Four-Nation Tournament today in the evening at Obed Itani Stadium in Francistown.
The Warriors progressed to the final after a commanding 3-0 win over Botswana in the semi-final, while Zambia edged Malawi 9-8 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Zimbabwe will be without defenders Munashe Garananga, who is injured, and Teenage Hadebe, who is suspended. There is, however, a boost for the Warriors as Marley Tavaziva is available for selection after recovering from a knock, while Corbin Mthunzi will also be available after missing the semi-final due to passport issues.
Zimbabwe has a chance to lay their hands on a trophy for the first time since 2018, when they won the COSAFA Cup under Sunday “Mhofu” Chidzambwa.
Zimbabwe coach Marian Marinica said:
“I watched Zambia in their first half against Malawi in the semi-final. They are a team with a good structure; they have width and they are very difficult to play against, so to speak.”
Zambia coach Oswald Mutapa said:
“Going into this match, the focus is to be more clinical and take our chances. If we are able to create chances, then it means we can score at any given time. The message to the players is to stay confident and take the opportunities.”
Zimbabwe’s recent form reads WLDLW, while Zambia come into the match with a WLDDL record.
The last meeting between the two sides was at the COSAFA Cup 2022, with Zimbabwe winning 2-0. Overall, Zimbabwe have won nine of the 22 matches between the teams, with Zambia winning seven and six ending in draws.
Zimbabwe are ranked 132 on the FIFA rankings, while Zambia are placed 91.
