Sports Reporter
The Young Warriors’ dreams of competing in the 2024 CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations were shattered after losing to Zambia in a penalty shootout at the COSAFA qualifier in Mozambique.
Coach Simon Marange praised his team’s fighting spirit despite the defeat.
“I am proud of the boys…For myself as a Zimbabwean, and not just as a coach, I think I am proud of these young men and everyone else should be too.”
Zambia dominated the first half, scoring two early goals through Mumba Mwila and David Simukonda. However, Zimbabwe fought back in the second half with Prince Ndlovu scoring a brace.
“We made a box in the midfield to match the overload that they had, and I think we managed to create chances to come back into the game,” Marange explained.
The match ended 2-2 after regular time, leading to a penalty shootout. Unfortunately, Zimbabwe missed their first kick in sudden death, handing Zambia the victory.
Zambia’s coach Boyd Mulwanda credited his players’ resilience.
“The boys put up a very good fight…It wasn’t an easy game for us, but the good part is that we managed to come out victorious.”
Zambia and South Africa will meet in the final and represent the COSAFA region at the AFCON, which serves as the qualifying platform for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile.
Marange reflected,
“I think it was a very difficult game against a very strong Zambia side…They completely dominated the first half.”
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