Warriors goalkeeper George Chigova says it was painful to sit out on Friday in the Afcon opener against Egypt, but he is now targeting to start in the clash with Uganda on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old was serving a yellow card suspension which he carried from the qualifiers.

Speaking to Television Sport Media, Chigova said: “It was painful for me to watch from the stands. I wanted to be there (in the team) and play the opening game, this is my first Afcon.

“Suspensions are part of football, you can’t run away from them, but it’s now water under the bridge.

“I just want to prepare for the next game, train well and work hard, and hopefully the coach will select me.”

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will be looking for their first victory at the tournament after losing 1-0 to Egypt on Friday. Uganda, who are on the top of Group A, want a win against the Warriors to book a place in the last 16 round.