Goalkeeper Washington Arubi expressed enthusiasm about his return to the Warriors after his recent inclusion in the training roster for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Arubi, a 38-year-old veteran, was among the players who began their training camp in Harare. Despite the Warriors’ head coach, Baltemar Brito, initially selecting a 24-player team, the roster experienced some withdrawals.
Speaking to journalists before a practice session, Arubi remarked on the significance of his return. “Rejoining the Warriors is significant for me. I’m grateful to the coach for this opportunity. It feels like a long absence, and I still have contributions to make to this team,” he said.
However, he voiced some disappointment regarding the canceled friendly match against Botswana. “It’s regrettable we won’t compete against Botswana. Yet, this training is crucial. The qualifiers are imminent, and we need to utilize the resources available,” Arubi noted.
According to a report by NewsDay Zimbabwe, the camp prepares the team for the FIFA World Cup Group C qualifiers next month, where they’ll face Rwanda and Nigeria. The group also includes South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin.
Arubi optimistically added, “Our prospects for qualifying are promising. Proper preparation is crucial.”
During this FIFA international period, Zifa couldn’t schedule a friendly game. They only managed to secure Europe-based Munashe Garananga from FC Sherrif Tiraspol. He joined the camp alongside Never Tigere.
SuperSport’s Arubi, one of only two goalkeepers on the roster, partners with Golden Eagle’s Godknows Gurure. Gurure replaced FC Platinum’s Wallace Magalane, a late scratch.
Other notable roster changes included the reentry of Ronald Pfumbidzai of SuperSport and replacements for several FC Platinum players who were withdrawn.
The current training squad includes:
- Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (SuperSport United), Godknows Gurure (Golden Eagles).
- Defenders: Ronald Pfumbidzai, Peter Muduhwa, Godknows Murwira, Munashe Garananga, Divine Lunga, Xolani Ndlovu, Frank Makarati.
- Midfielders: Never Tigere, Tatenda Tavengwa, Tanaka Shandirwa, Phenias Bamusi, Takunda Benhura, Gerald Bero, Shepherd Mhlanga, Brett Amidu.
- Forwards: Obriel Chirinda, Knox Mutizwa.
