Zimbabwe go top of Group A

ZIMBABWE Leapfrogged Rwanda at the top of Group A after yesterday’s commanding 2-0 win over Djibouti at the on-going Cecafa Tusker Challenge Cup in Dar es Salaam. Donald Ngoma and Qadr Amini scored the goals for the warriors, who were a last minute replacement for Namibia.

Sunday, November 27, 2011
Rusheshangoga takes on an Ivory Coast player during the 2011 Africa U-17 Championship. The youngster has been called up to replace Gabriel Mugabo in Dar es Salaam. The New Times / File.

ZIMBABWE Leapfrogged Rwanda at the top of Group A after yesterday’s commanding 2-0 win over Djibouti at the on-going Cecafa Tusker Challenge Cup in Dar es Salaam.

Donald Ngoma and Qadr Amini scored the goals for the warriors, who were a last minute replacement for Namibia.

Ngoma, who plays for FC Platinum back in Zimbabwe, put the guest-side ahead after 10 minutes before Amini’s 73rd strike put the match beyond Djibouti’s reach much to the delight of Norman Mapeza, who opted to field a number of uncapped players for experimental purposes as part of early preparations for the 2014 Fifa World Cup and 2013 Africa Nations Cup qualifying campaign.

The result took Zimbabwe top of Group A while Rwanda, who stunned defending champions Tanzania with a 1-0 win on Saturday, dropped to second place on goal difference.

Amavubi captain Olivier Karekezi scored the winner on the 23rd minute after launching onto a brilliant cross from Meddie Kagere. The pair was then denied by the woodwork.

Amavubi coach Milutin Micho yesterday confirmed that Kagere would be available for Tuesday’s clash with Zimbabwe. The Police striker had been considered a doubt after injuring his right foot on Saturday.

"It is not serious as first thought so he should be fine for Tuesday,” the Serbian said.


Left-back Frederic Ndaka is however ruled out with a toe injury.

Burundi also maintained their lead at the top of Group B after yesterday’s goalless draw against Zanzibar. The draw coupled with Friday’s 4-0 mauling over Somalia, moved them to four points.

Action continues today with three games on cards. Sudan faces Ethiopia while Kenya plays Malawi in Group C. In Group B, record champions Uganda entertain Somalia.

bonnie.mugabe@newtimes.co.rw

Ends