Story by Mthokozisi Dube
ZIMBABWEAN champions Scottland view their invitation to the Toyota Cup as an important test of their readiness for the club’s maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
After winning the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title following significant investment and the recruitment of some of Zimbabwe’s top players, Mabviravira are now preparing to compete on the continental stage.
Their first major assignment comes against South African giants Kaizer Chiefs in the prestigious Toyota Cup in Rustenburg.
While the high-profile fixture has generated excitement among supporters, Scottland believe its greatest value lies in measuring themselves against one of Africa’s most established clubs ahead of their CAF Champions League debut.
Scottland spokesperson Mr George Munengwa said the invitation followed a visit to the club by Kaizer Chiefs Marketing and Commercial Director Bobby Motaung.
“You will recall that we hosted Bobby Motaung in Harare at the invitation of Honourable Scott. Bobby saw what we are doing as a club. He toured our stadium, which is under construction, and that is how this invitation came about.”
He said the club intends to use the match as a learning opportunity.
“For us, it’s not just about competing, it’s about learning from clubs that came before us, successful clubs. We are using this tournament to see where we are as we prepare for the CAF Champions League. We are only a three-year-old club, and we still have a lot to learn.”
Scottland are scheduled to leave for Johannesburg on Friday before travelling to Rustenburg, where they will hold their final training session on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s Toyota Cup clash.
The match will be played at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium and will be broadcast live on ZBC TV.
From: Yvon
