B-Metro
Raymond Jaravaza
THREATS of boycotts and refusal to train within the Warriors camp have been averted after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) secured over US$1 million for the players that will do battle at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals in Cameroon.
The Warriors kick-off the tournament with a game against Senegal on Monday before meeting Malawi four days later and round up their group fixtures against Guinea on 18 January.
“The SRC has a US$1 million budget for the Warriors campaign made up of US$800 000 and ZWL21 million to finance their participation at the AFCON finals, inclusive of appearance and match fees,” said the SRC.
The players were paid their first trench of appearance fees earlier in the week, B-Metro Sport was briefed.
“Everything is in place and the players have been paid part of their allowances.
“The boys are happy as so far, all that we required has either been availed or promised.
“The morale in camp is high and as management we would like to thank the SRC and everyone associated with Zimbabwe for a very good job.
“This is very comforting and as Warriors we are happy with that and the coach has impressed upon everyone to play their part with commitment and dedication,” said Warriors general manager Wellington Mpandare.
Team captain Knowledge Musona had his first training session with the team on Wednesday after joining camp in Cameroon.
Musona joined camp after being nominated for the December Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Star of the Month Award Western Region.
The 31-year-old has scored three goals in three games for his Saudi Pro League team Al Taai.
His form is likely to excite coach Norman Mapeza, who has a tough call to decide who will lead the Warriors’ front line.
The other forwards in the side are Admiral Muskwe (Luton Town), Prince Dube (Azam), David Moyo (Hamilton Academical), Knowledge Musona (C) (Al Tai), Tinotenda Kadewere (Olympique Lyonnais).
Warriors Squad
Goalkeepers: Petros Mhari (FC Platinum), Martin Mapisa (FC Zamora), Talbert Shumba (Free State Stars)
Defenders: Peter Muduwa (Highlanders), Alec Mudimu (Torpedo Kutaisi), Takudzwa Chimwemwe (Nkana), Jordan Zemura (AFC Bournemouth), Godknows Muriwa (Dynamos), Gerald Takwara (Venda Football Academy), Teenage Hadebe (Houston Dynamo), Bruce Kangwa (Azam), Onismor Bhasera (Supersport United)
Midfielders: Kelvin Madzongwe (FC Platinum), Thabani Kamusoko (Zesco United), Never Tigere (Azam), Kudakwashe Mahachi (Supersport United), Ishmael Wadi (JDR Stars), Kundai Benyu (Vestra)
Forwards: Admiral Muskwe (Luton Town), Prince Dube (Azam), David Moyo (Hamilton Academical), Knowledge Musona (C) (Al Tai), Tinotenda Kadewere (Olympique Lyonnais)
