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Ellina Mhlanga in Gwanda
HAVING won the Copa Coca-Cola girls Under-17 title three times in a row, Chidyamakono says they are geared up for the national finals starting this morning in Gwanda.

The hosts are Gwanda High and Colleen Bawn. There will be round-robin matches for four groups of three teams each in both sections — boys and girls. The top two teams in each group progress to the quarter-finals while the final is set for Pelandaba.

Chidyamakono coach, Yeukai Chiruvu believes they have what it takes to go all the way and defend their title.

“We have been working hard to win once again although some of our players have since graduated to the next age-group. The secret behind our success is hard work and we have prepared for the tournament.

“In the game of football there is a winner and a loser, but when you prepare for these games you will be hoping for the best. So we will be in Gwanda to fight,” said Chiruvu.

Chiruvu said the girls are motivated and morale is high in their camp ahead of the kick-off today.

Chidyamakono, who automatically qualify for the tournament by virtue of being the champions will be joined by Rufaro in representing Masvingo in the girls section.

The girls’ defending champions beat St Francis in the finals last year. St Francis will not be taking part in Gwanda after they were eliminated in the provincial finals.

“But for the boys, last year’s losing finalists, Rujeko will be out to continue from where they left and their coach, Hardware Chatora said they are looking forward to the event.

“We are geared up to go and win the tournament. If we can just concentrate and avoid complacency for the whole tournament we can make it because last year I think complacency cost us. So we have told our players to focus.”

Harare City assistant coach, Mkhupali Masuku, Noel Kaseke and former Mighty Warriors captain Nomsa “Boys” Moyo are expected to be among the guest coaches at this year’s tournament.

Boys Groups

Group A: Dewure, Devuli, Sobukhazi.

Group B: Mzingwane, Chinhoyi High, Tohwe.

Group C: Pamushana, Guinea Fowl, Rujeko.

Group D: Gwanda High, Chemhanza, Churchill.

Girls Groups

Groups A: Rufaro, Chipadze, Vimbai.

Group B: Chidyamakono, Magwegwe, Sojini.

Group C: Thekwane, Mabelreign Girls High, Gotora.

Group D: Colleen Bawn, Utongani, Nyamauru.