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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE Under-17 national football team captain Tinotendaishe Benza is hopeful they will do well at the COSAFA Cup which begins tomorrow in Mauritius.

This year’s competition will be played at the Saint François Xavier in the capital Port Louis and the Mauritius Football Association Technical Centre. Benza, the 16-year-old Peterhouse forward has rallied his troops to make a mark at the tournament.

The 20-member team left the country yesterday and will be under the guidance of Moses “Bambo” Chunga while Tafadzwa Mashiri will deputise him. Benza, who plays for Division One side Herentals, said they have a good team that can upset anyone at the tournament.

“I think we are ready for the challenge and everyone is looking forward to taking part in the tournament. “The preparations went on well and I am happy to be appointed the team leader and that will push me to do my best.

“The guys have been working hard for the past two weeks and we have come to understand each other better. “It is not a big challenge for me to communicate with the boys as I have been playing soccer for some time.

“As a team we now understand each other better despite coming from different backgrounds and that we are of the same age has helped us a lot,” said Benza.

The same sentiments were echoed by vice-captain Victor Chipangura of St Ignatius College who plays as a defensive midfielder.

“I think it is an honour for everyone called up and I believe they will do their best. “The team has so much potential with everyone working hard.

“We promise to do our best in Mauritius and possibly even win the trophy,” said Chipangura.