Shot in the arm for Warriors’ AFCON campaign

By Geronimo News

The Zimbabwe Warriors have received a major boost after the government pledged its commitment to support the team ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign set for Cameroon next month.

Despite the squabbles bedeviling the game in the country, the government through its arm the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has tabled a budget of US$800 000 and ZWL$21 million for the team’s expenses ranging from their training camp up until the group phase of the tournament.

“The SRC fully supports the current ZIFA Secretariat’s cause to ensure the Warriors smooth participation at the continental extravaganza next year in Cameroon. We believe the money will be used wisely and ensure the quality of the game is not compromised by a situation where funding will be the problem. As SRC we will continue to support the team and make sure the budgetary requirements are met,” said the SRC Board chairman Gerald Mlotshwa.

With less than a month to go before the tournament kicks off Zimbabwe are yet to camp with fears that some of the foreign based players might fail to make it for the trip to Yaoundé due to different reasons.

Notably Stade de Reims midfielder Marshall Munetsi will not be available owing to an injury while it remains to be seen whether star forward Khama Billiat will come out of retirement and don the gold and green jersey for one last time.

However, business has to go on and coach Norman Mapeza who was recently reappointed to take charge of the Warriors for the AFCON finals will have to get the ball rolling.