How The Warriors Could Line Up Against Senegal

A lot of events have happened towards the build up to Zimbabwe’s fifth appearance at the Africa cup of nations finals, the Warriors have had problems both infield and outfield – from key players withdrawing at the eleventh hour through injuries to board room squabbles that had the potential to get them kicked out of the tournament.

However, despite all these problems the Warriors- with the help of the government managed to sojourn and tommorow they kick-start their campaign against Senegal.

Coach Norman Mapeza has a number of big decisions to make when it comes to team selection for Monday’s group B opener

Though the Lions of Teranga are hard hit by the corona virus – with most of their recognized players ruled out after testing positive of the virus

But, Senegal are not short of options to make a team capable of reaching far in this tournament and Mapeza is fully aware of the danger posed by the West Africans, giving him plenty to digest ahead of tommorow.

Mapeza who is more of a man manager than he is a technical, is set to name his strongest possible eleven for tommorow’s clash and is likely to use the 4-3-3 system considering the players on his disposal.

Petros Mhari who started against Sudan before substituted for a suspected injury is expected to start in goals after recovered early and seemingly has the full backing of the coach and is likely to get the nod ahead of Spain based youngster Martin Mapisa and Talbert Shumba.

In defence Mapeza is expected to go with the tried and trusted services of Teenage Hadebe and Alec Mudimu who have experience partnering at the center back, although Gerald Takwara is also an option in that position.

Takudzwa Chimwemwe who impressed against Sudan, is likely to be an option at the right back where he has been Tendayi Darikwa’s backup for a handful games already with Azam’s Bruce Kangwa occupying the left-back position ahead of Highlanders’ Peter Muduhwa.

Veteran central midfielder Thabani Kamusoko will anchor the midfield partnering with Kelvin Madzongwe to provide shield for the back four while skipper Knowledge Musona occupy more advanced positions to help in attack.

Vestri midfielder Kundai Benyu and Kuda Mahachi could occupy the wide areas.

Mapeza has plenty options upfront with Tinotenda Kadewere, Prince Dube, David Moyo and Admiral Muskwe all in contention to lead the attack.

The FC Platinum coach, yesterday told The Sunday mail that his boys are ready and up to the task.

“The boys are psyched up for this game,” Mapeza said.

“The players are pushing and it’s something that I am glad of. Morale is also high and the boys are highly motivated to perform,” he said.

The Zimbabwe Warriors versus Senegal encounter will be at 15H00/ 16H00 local time in Kouekeng stadium in Bafoussam.

Probable line Up (4-3-3 Formation)

Petros Mhari, Takudzwa Chimwemwe, Bruce Kangwa, Alec Mudimu, Teenage Hadebe, Thabani Kamusoko, Kundai Benyu, Kelvin Madzongwe, Tinotenda Kadewere, Knowledge Musona, Kuda Mahachi.

Score Prediction

Zimbabwe 1-1 Senegal