Destiny in Warriors’ hands

…. a look at Zimbabwe’s chances

 By Ray Munyoro 

Zimbabwe Warriors are within reach of the Cameroon 2022 AFCON finals after Match Day 4 of the qualifying rounds.Zdravko Logarusic’s men took their tally to five points, second on the standings, after Monday’s 2-2 draw against Algeria.

Nhau Sport looks at Zimbabwe’s chances of qualifying for another AFCON finals showdown – their fifth, should they make it.

With Algeria, who are unbeaten in the group so far, having already qualified after taking their tally to 10 points on Monday, Zimbabwe’s threats are now Botswana and Zambia.

Botswana have four points while Zambia are on three and all have hopes of qualifying.Zimbabwe are left with a trip to Botswana and a home match against Zambia in March next year.

And without considering results elsewhere, Zimbabwe need to collect at least four points from these two matches to take their tally to nine points.

This will mean their threats – Botswana and Zambia – cannot reach that target.

Destiny is in their own hands since they are playing all the two teams.

Botswana, who are a point behind Zimbabwe, travel to Algeria, which makes their journey to West Africa for the finals difficult.Just a reminder, Zambia were slaughtered 5-0 in Algeria, Zimbabwe lost 3-1 and it would be a miracle for the Zebras of Botswana to come out with a win there.

Even if the miracle is to come true, Zimbabwe will have to ‘deal with Botswana’ on their own.

Some might argue that the Desert Foxes have nothing to play for since they have already qualified, but the North Africans have a record to jealously guard.

After Monday’s 2-2 draw against Zimbabwe, Algeria took their unbeaten run to 22 games.Zambia, another threat, are also hosting Algeria and even if they are to get a win, Zimbabwe will again have to ‘deal with them’ when they travel to Harare.

Even coach Logarusic is aware that it is within their reach but has urged his boys to avoid complacency. Nhau/Indaba