By McGeorge Mbare
THE Zimbabwe U23 men’s national team, the Young Warriors, will face Mauritius in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Wednesday at the National Sports Stadium.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 18:00.
The Young Warriors have a point to prove and a nation to serve when they take to the field this evening.
Following the senior team’s loss to DR Congo on Monday at the National Sports Stadium, the Young Warriors will be aiming to restore national pride on home soil against Mauritius.
Backed by the home crowd, the Young Warriors will look to kick start their qualifying campaign in style and secure maximum points.
Young Warriors coach March Sánchez has a pool of talented players at his disposal as he seeks his first victory at home as Zimbabwe’s U23 head coach.
Players such as Manica Diamonds youngster Darren Zulu, Highlanders FC’s Prince Ndlovu, and Timmy Kushata of MWOS will be eager to play a bigger role on the international stage.
The clash between Zimbabwe and Mauritius will also mark Sánchez’s first game as head coach of the Zimbabwe U23 national team.
Ahead of the match, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) confirmed enhanced matchday arrangements for the Young Warriors’ encounter with Mauritius.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to reassure fans attending this evening’s U23 AFCON qualifier between Zimbabwe and Mauritius at the National Sports Stadium in Harare that measures are in place to ensure a safe, orderly and enjoyable matchday experience.
“All turnstiles and ticket scanners have been tested and are working to facilitate smooth entry. Additional stewards will be deployed to assist supporters, while enhanced security arrangements are in place to safeguard everyone attending,” the ZIFA statement reads.
ZIFA also announced that parking will be free to help reduce congestion at the gates and ease vehicle access.
Motorists have been urged to follow the directions of parking attendants and security personnel.
Fans have also been reminded that no tickets will be sold at the match venue.