Johnson Progress

Zimbabwe’s Under-17 national team, the Young Warriors, has failed to find the back of the net in their ongoing CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations COSAFA Qualifiers campaign.

The team played out a goalless draw against Eswatini in their second match at Ngoni Stadium on Saturday, adding to their opening one-nil defeat to Mozambique.

Despite boasting a forward line known for its scoring prowess in domestic youth leagues, the Young Warriors have struggled to replicate that form on the continental stage.

Head coach Thulani Sibanda expressed concern over his team’s lack of cutting edge in front of goal, despite creating opportunities.

“We are creating chances, but we need more confidence and maturity in front of the goal,” Sibanda said.

Sibanda specifically highlighted the form slump of Tadiwa Chakuchichi, the team’s talisman, who has failed to make an impact in the tournament so far.

“Tadiwa (Chakuchichi), it just is not happening. Second game, same performance, of which he is our talisman. Maybe he has a hidden injury; we need to find out,” Sibanda said.

Other players, such as Awakhiwe Tshalibe and El Shaddai Sadomba, have shown promise, with Tshalibe impressing after coming on as a substitute and Sadomba being brilliant off the bench.

The goalless draw against Eswatini, coupled with a similar result between Mozambique and Comoros earlier in the day, keeps Group A delicately poised.

To keep their semi-final hopes alive, the Young Warriors must win their final group match and hope other results fall in their favor.

The tournament continues at a pace, with semi-final spots hanging in the balance.

Attention now shifts to Sunday’s Group B and C action, where:
1.South Africa vs Madagascar: A highly anticipated match at the Heart Stadium
2.Zambia vs Malawi: Another crucial encounter at the same venue
3.Botswana vs Mauritius: A battle for points at Ngoni Stadium
4.Angola vs Lesotho: A clash of two determined teams at Ngoni Stadium

The Young Warriors will need to regroup and refocus if they are to stand any chance of advancing to the semi-finals.