The Minister of Sport and Recreation, Hon Makhosini Hlongwane heaped praises on the Warriors whilst challenging them to go even to greater levels following their qualification to AFCON 2017.

Speaking at a dinner hosted for the triumphant Warriors; Hlongwane challenged the team to begin preparations for the tournament now.

“This qualification is not the end of the process but the beginning of a long arduous journey that should see Zimbabwe’s Warriors not just participating in Gabon, but competing strongly to bring the Cup home.

“In the intervening period between now and January, a lot of investment should be done in the conditioning and preparation of our boys from the physical, mental, psychological and all aspects.

“Beyond that ZIFA (National Football Association of Zimbabwe) should make sure the preparations for Africa’s biggest football festival are given heightened attention,” said Hlongwane as quoted by the Herald.

The Minister also praised the leadership of Philip Chiyangwa at the helm of football in the country.