A two-goal deficit stands between Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors and a place in the next round of the Women’s Olympic qualifiers. However, head coach Stella Gotal says the team has reviewed its performance and identified areas that need improvement ahead of the crucial match.

Despite the setback, the players remain motivated.

“Definitely, it was not the result we wanted, but the tie is not over. Tomorrow, we will play our second match, which will be very important in deciding whether we qualify for the next round or not,” Gotal said.

“After the match, we analysed our performance and identified areas we need to work on and improve. The atmosphere in camp is positive, and the girls are very motivated and ready to play tomorrow’s match,” she added.

For the Mighty Warriors, the challenge will now be to put those improvements into practice on the pitch.

Chasing a two-goal deficit means Zimbabwe must attack and score, but the team also needs to defend well to avoid giving Malawi opportunities to increase its lead.

The return match will also test the Mighty Warriors’ ability to handle the pressure of a must-win situation. An early goal could give Zimbabwe hope, but rushed attacks and missed chances could make the task more difficult.

Captain Emmaculate Msipa has expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and thanked those who have supported the players ahead of the match.

“I just want to take this opportunity to thank our fieldworkers for the excellent preparation, outstanding facilities and support ahead of our game against Malawi. We really appreciate their effort and commitment,” Msipa said.

She also praised the unity within the team, saying it would be important in the return match.

“Team chemistry is incredible, which is important for our success. The girls are ready for the game. We know we are two goals behind,” she said.

However, confidence and team spirit alone will not be enough. Zimbabwe must improve its passing, work better as a team and create more chances if it hopes to overcome Malawi’s advantage.

Some supporters have also shared their views about the team’s performance in the first leg, particularly its use of long passes and the positioning of players in attack.

Oseman Sithole called for improvement while expressing confidence in the players.

“Thank you, Coach. Let’s work on building a stronger team for the next game. The team tried its best, but one problem I noticed was the use of long passes when there was no one in position to receive the ball. This caused us to lose possession. Our players are good, but they seemed to lack confidence,” Sithole said.

His comment points to a possible weakness in Zimbabwe’s attacking play. Long passes can be useful when players make runs into open spaces, but without teammates ready to receive the ball, the team can easily lose possession and struggle to maintain pressure on its opponents.

Other supporters have urged patience, saying the team needs time to improve rather than being judged on one result.

“Football is not built in a day. The team needs time to improve from this performance. We should look at the positives and build from there. Tough luck, Coach. Better luck in the next game,” said Edmore Mawine.

Thandekile Ngwenza also stressed the need for better teamwork while expressing continued belief in the players.

“The team did well. It is back to the drawing board as we prepare for the next game. Better teamwork is needed, and I have faith in this team,” Ngwenza said.