ZIFA president Philip Chiyangwa has paid tribute to the Zimbabwe U-17 team for clinching a gold medal at the recently ended African Union Sports Council Region V games.

In a statement to ZIFA’s official website Dr Chiyangwa saluted the Young Warriors, challenging them to remain focused till they eventually graduate to the senior team.

“Congratulations to the young boys for their valiant exploits which won them the best prize in the football tournament.

“The boys are a clear testimony of the kind of foundation we are trying to set up in Zimbabwean football at the moment.

“Let me also congratulate the whole technical department and the Sport and Recreation Commission for making sure that the team was well catered for during its preparations for the just ended youth games,” said Dr Chiyangwa.

Chiyangwa urged the players to aim to reach their maximum potential

“I want to encourage the golden boys to keep working hard and to remain focused till they develop into world class talents who can play in European leagues; and most importantly who can graduate into the senior national team.

“To the girls, learn from the defeat this time around and continue to work hard because there is no other route to success besides hard work he added.z