Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE Zimbabwe national football team will be aiming to end an eight-year trophy drought when they face the Zambia national football team in the final of the Four Nations Tournament this Tuesday.
Under head coach Marian Marinica, the Warriors have rediscovered their attacking edge, transforming from a side once criticised for bluntness into one showing renewed sharpness and purpose in the final third.
A return of 10 goals in six matches reflects a marked improvement, particularly when compared to the closing phase of Michael Nees’ tenure, where the team managed just one goal in five outings despite enjoying spells of possession.
The tactical shift has been evident, with Marinica favouring a quicker, more direct approach that prioritises penetration and efficiency in attack.
“Credit should go to the players; they have adapted to the methods easily, and they have not shown any resistance. Goals win matches, and we also hope we can continue keeping clean sheets as well,” Marinica said.
Captain Marvelous Nakamba said lifting the trophy would be crucial in shaping the squad’s mentality.
“It will be good to win the final, winning gives confidence we have youngsters, so they have to have a winning mentality,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s last piece of silverware came at the COSAFA Cup 2018, and victory in Francistown would not only underline the team’s resurgence but also signal a new chapter built on belief and attacking intent.
With momentum building and confidence restored, the Warriors now stand one match away from turning promise into silverware.
