Ntopwa Queens coach James Sangala has said he is impressed with the strong mentality of his troops as they continue preparations for their opening match against Lesotho Defence Force in the 2023 Caf Champions League/Cosafa qualifier at Sugar Ray Zulu Stadium on Wednesday.
The Amaghetto Queens arrived in Durban, South Africa, on Saturday.
They, then, had a loosening session at Northwood Crusaders Sports ground on Sunday.
Sangala said the girls are in the right frame of mind ahead of their opener.
“The girls have been responding well and I am impressed with their attitude. We have two players who have knocks but we are confident that they will be fit for the first match,” Sangala said.
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However, Sangala said despite that this is their maiden international tournament, the girls are ready to compete.
“This being our first international tournament, we do not want to put ourselves under pressure but we are here to compete. Honestly, winning the tournament will be a bonus for us,’’ the former Flames and Mighty Mukuru Wanderers defender said.
Ntopwa will face defending champions Green Buffaloes of Zambia at the same venue on Friday before wrapping up the group stage campaign against Double Action from Botswana at Princess Magogo Stadium on Sunday.
National Women’s Football Association Chairperson Adelaide Migogo was optimistic that Ntopwa would do well at the tournament.
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“We have talented players in Malawi and Ntopwa can pull a surprise,” she said.
Two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals. The winner of the tournament will book a ticket to the Caf Champions League finals to be staged in November in Ivory Coast.
