Zimbabwe vs South Africa Preview

Zimbabwe will also be hoping to claim glory and fly their flag high in Qatar. Coach Zdravko Logarusic had been in charge for five games, only beating Botswana, while trying to impose his style of play in fruitless encounters against Malawi, Algeria (twice) and Zambia.

The Warriors then travelled to South Africa to participate in the COSAFA Cup two months ago, where Zimbabwe failed to win any of their four games as South Africa claimed bragging rights, eventually being named champions after beating Senegal on penalties.

The attacking duo of Khama Billiat and Terrence Dzvukamanja are well known to South African football fans, the duo represents two of Mzansi’s biggest clubs and are the most potent threats in the Warriors’ arsenal.

Knowledge Musona will continue to captain his nation and aim to improve their current FIFA ranking of 108th in the world and 26th on the continent.

Hugo Broos named goalkeeper Ronwen Williams as captain and attacking midfielder Percy Tau as vice-captain last Monday. Coach Broos also stated, “I am very happy that Percy Tau is now playing in Egypt”.

Opinions are still divided as to whether Tau should’ve stayed and fought for a place at Brighton in arguably the best league in the world. However, the opportunity to work with coach Pitso Mosimane at ‘The Club of the Century’ Al Ahly was too tempting, while regular playing time could only be considered as a positive for the player, who is supposed to be at the peak of his powers at the age of 27.

A youthful midfield has been selected, although, I don’t see it as South Africa’s biggest area of concern. The defence is going to have their hands full, dealing with the direct pace and power from Zimbabwe attacks, especially Billiat and Dzvukamanja.

With Rivaldo Coetzee and Mosa Lebusa omitted from the squad, I’m also sceptical about aerial duels whereby the Sundowns duo used to dominate when called upon.