Zambia’s representatives at the COSAFA Women’s Champions League, Green Buffaloes Women’s football club are optimistic ahead of the tournament which kicks off on Thursday.
Head coach Charles Haalubono says preparations have gone on well with the team. The Zambia army-sponsored outfit is targeting winning the tournament.
“The preparations have gone well, we have managed to train as a team since the return of the players who well at the Olympics,” he said.
“Irene Lungu and Lushomo Mweemba are struggling with injuries. We had challenges upfront which we are working on and we have seen improvement.”
“It’s a good experience for us, It is an opportunity for our players to get international exposure which helps the game grow.
” The target is to perform well and win the tournament. It’s important to go there and remain focused, It a just the first stage there is a bigger tournament ahead,” he added.
Captain of the side, Joana Benaya is confident the team will not only be participants but will compete favorably.
“We have prepared well and worked hard. As a team, we are going there to win and we will do our best. As a captain am telling my fellow players to stay focused,” she said.
“This tournament will give us exposure, and other teams can see us,” she added.
The team will leave for South Africa tomorrow. Buffaloes were drawn in Group B alongside Black Rhino’s from Zimbabwe and Tura Magic from Namibia.
The top two teams in each pool will advance to the semifinals while the victor will advance to the continental showpiece event that is set for later in the year.
The COSAFA Women’s Champions League will also act as a qualifier for the CAF Women’s Champions League. The COSAFA Qualifier for the 2021 TOTALENERGIES CAF Women’s Champions League will be played from August 26-September 4.
