By Tapiwa Chawagarira
THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has announced a provisional Mighty Warriors squad for the upcoming COSAFA Women’s Championship, set to take place in South Africa from February 18 to March 1.
Head coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda named a balanced squad that blends experience and emerging talent drawn from local clubs, academies and unattached players, as Zimbabwe seeks to make a strong impression at the regional tournament.
The goalkeeping department will be manned by Cynthia Shonga of Herentals Queens, Delight Matigwene from Chapungu Queens and Vanessa Lunga of Platinum Royals, providing depth and competition between the posts.
In defence, the technical team has selected a solid line-up that includes Bridget Mutaurwa (Herentals Queens), Nobukhosi Ncube and Sheila Antonio (Chapungu Queens), Egness Tumbare (Correctional Queens), Nokukhanya Ndlovu (Platinum Royals), Fiona Kabera (Conduit Soccer Academy), Melinda Mapasure (Faithdrive Academy), Alice Moyo (Herentals Queens), as well as Black Rhinos Queens duo Lucia Chisvo and Christabel Katona.
The midfield features Daisy Kaitano and Caroline Mangwai of Black Rhinos Queens, Shyline Dambamuromo and Bethel Kondo from Herentals Queens, Macgirl Sipini (Harare City Queens), Tasha Dube (Sheasham Queens), Ennert Chemhere (Platinum Royals) and unattached player Tanyaradzwa Chihoro.
Up front, the Mighty Warriors will rely on a potent attacking unit that includes Praynance Zvawanda and Thandolwenkosi Sibanda, alongside Anita Ncube (Kwekwe Queens), Ethel Chinyerere (Chapungu Queens), Priviledge Mupeti, Rutendo Makore (Black Rhinos Queens), and Blessing Dube (Correctional Queens).
Coach Sibanda will be assisted by Tsitsi Shiri, with Onai Chingawo overseeing the goalkeepers. The technical bench is completed by fitness coach Primrose Serima, team doctor Dr Margaret Maulana, physiotherapist Kudzanayi Matavire, safeguarding officer Petronella Mutyambizi and team manager Debra Green.
The COSAFA Women’s Championship serves as a key platform for regional competition and player development, and the Mighty Warriors are expected to use the tournament to sharpen combinations, assess depth and build momentum for future continental assignments.
ZIFA said the squad remains provisional, with final selections expected to be made following preparations and assessments ahead of the tournament.
