Story by Anashe Murombedzi
ZIMBABWE’S women’s national football team, the Mighty Warriors, are set for a return to international action later this month when they take part in a three-nations tournament in Lilongwe, Malawi.
The team completed its third consecutive day of training on Thursday as preparations intensify ahead of the FIFA international break, which coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda is using to build momentum for next year’s COSAFA Women’s Championship.
The Lilongwe assignment marks the Mighty Warriors’ first competitive outing since their February defeat to Angola in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, making the upcoming friendlies a crucial step in rebuilding form and confidence.
Sibanda has assembled a 30-member squad comprising predominantly locally based players, with the objective of shaping a core group for the COSAFA tournament.
“It has been a long time since the team was in action at international level, but this is a good opportunity for the girls to play at least two matches. We have involved locally-based players for this tournament, so that we can have a team that we can probably call our COSAFA team, Mighty Warriors coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda noted.
Among the promising new faces is Chapungu Queens goalkeeper Delight Matigwene, who said earning a national call-up was a major milestone.
“It was always my dream to be part of the national team and showcase my talent. I promise to give out my best to gain more opportunities and exposure ahead of international events,” she said.
The Mighty Warriors will face hosts Malawi on November 28, in the opener, before taking on Zambia on the final day on December 2.
