Warriors head coach Callisto Pasuwa says a tough AFCON draw was to be expected and is confident that Zimbabwe can hold their own against Africa’s giants.
Zimbabwe were drawn to face Algeria, Tunisia and Senegal in what looks like the “Group of Death”.
Algeria are ranked 2nd best in Africa while Senegal and Tunisia are 3rd and 4th respectively on the continent according to the latest FIFA Rankings.
Algeria boast of talents such as Leicester pair of Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani.
Senegal also have a strong squad with Liverpool striker Sadio Mane expected to spearhead the “Lions of Teranga” together with high profile players like Southampton’s Sadio Mane and West Ham’s Cheikhou Kouyate.
We have to appreciate that all the 16 teams did not qualify by chance Pasuwa told the Herald.They finished on top of their groups and it means we can only expect quality opposition.
“So we expected the, we knew it was not going to be an easy draw.
Pasuwa emphasised the need for good preparations after quality opposition especially from North Africa saying it would add more value and was hoping his squad would be able to get sufficient time to camp. Pasuwa wants at least two friendly matches for the Warriors with Egypt and Morocco his preferences.