(Last Updated on September 11, 2012 by Editor)
ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe’s Warriors recorded a morale boosting 3-1 home victory over Angola in a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Harare on Sunday afternoon.
Inspite of missing a number of key players due to the Asiagate scandal, including top striker, Knowledge ‘Smiling Assasin’ Musona and midfield kingpin, Tinashe Nengomasha, who were refused travel by their clubs after ZIFA put in their request too late, the ‘Brave Warriors’ were able to overcome their more illustrious opponents.
The home side raced to a comfortable 3-0 first half lead – thanks to an own goal from Angolan star Bastos, who set the tone for the victory which was wildly celebrated in Zimbabwe.
The home side were very impressive as they controlled matters from the outset with their high work-rate and impressive passing.
Moreover, Zimbabwe’s play in the final third was superb and their finishing was top class.
South Africa’s Ajax Cape Town star player, Khama Billiat and former Ajax midfielder Archford Gutu, who now plays in Sweden, grabbed the other two goals in the opening half to give the homes a side a convincing lead at half time.
Ironically, Angola were not playing that badly, but Zimbabwe were clinical in front of goal and took what chances came their way.
The second 45 saw the Zimbabweans take their foot off the gas as they seemed content to hold onto the lead they had established.
This allowed Angola into the game a little and the Palancas Negras managed to get a goal in the second period through substitute Djalma that could prove vital in the return leg in Angola next month.