By Simba Jemwa
Two Africa nations seeking a trip to the next World Cup after disappointing previous campaigns meet at the National Sports Stadium in Harare this afternoon, as Zimbabwe do battle with Ghana in a 2022 Fifa World Cup Group G Qualifier.
Given the draw, Norman Mapeza’s side could easly be at the top of this group standings but alas, the hosts are struggling to hold onto the dream after two consecutive defeats and home draw against a weakened South Africa has them on knife’s edge.
Yet another shot at that elusive major tournament participation seems to be going begging for Zimbabwe thus far – with the the Warriors looking way out of heir depth in just about every match they play these days- but they could respond in ideal fashion this afternoon.
Indeed, the Warriors are quite difficult to beat at home though they are currently on a winless home streak dating as far back as 2019, but have been known to occasionally pull a rabbit out of the hat when chips are down.
Despite the wealth of irrepressible talent that has emerged through Zimbabwe’s ranks in recent years, the Warriors are still waiting for a piece of silverware and ournament success to mark their rapid rise, and overcoming giants like Algeria, Egypt and Ghana over the years has been no mean feat, showing that talent is there but perhaps missing the key component: a good coach!
However, in today’s encounter the Warriors have all to do and play for. They have only one point from three matches: two losses and the sole home draw and are six popint behind group leaders South Africa and five behind their opponents today, Ghana.
Can Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona do the jiggy and reignite the dream? Can Mapeza overcome his contenental hives and lead this side to a key victory? Or will Zimbabwe continue to sing the blues after 90 minutes?
All eyes will be on England-based defender Brendan Galloway who is making his maiden cap with the Warriors this afternoon after being an unused substitute last Saturday.
The 25-year-old former Everton man, who grew up n the UK and played for the England age-group teams up to the Under-21 side, has repeatedly pledged his allegiance to the Zimbabwe flag.
The Warriors fans are hoping that he will spark and shine bright like Jordan Zemura whose exploits have impressed for both club and country.
Zimbabwe’s XI:
Talbert Shumba, Rahman Kutsanzira, Brendan Galloway, Alec Mudimu, Jordan Zemura, Khama Billiat
Kelvin Madzongwe, Teenage Hadebe, Marvelous Nakamba, Knowledge Musona (c), Terrence Dzvukamanja
Ghana’s XI:
J. Wollacott, D. Amertey, R. Baba, A. Djiku, J. Mensah, I. Baba, T. Partey, J. Ayew, K. Sulemana, M. Kudus, B. Tetteh
