Zimbabwe to rest key players against Bafana? Zim coach responds | OneFootball

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Zim coach on giving fringe players a chance in Bafana clash

Photo: Zimbabwe national team head coach Michael Nees

Zimbabwe national team head coach Michael Nees has responded to questions on whether he will give fringe players a chance against Bafana Bafana.

The Warriors host Hugo Broos' side in a FIFA World Cup qualifier clash at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday (18h00).

While the encounter is crucial for Bafana, bottom-placed Zimbabwe are already out of the running for a spot in the global showpiece, having failed to register at win thus far.

When quizzed on whether this is an experimental game for his team, the German mentor swiftly poured cold water on those suggestions, stressing the importance of aiming for a win.

“We have a duty as sportsmen to take this game serious. We cannot start to experiment now like in June [friendlies], giving players tests. It would be interpreted very quickly in a certain way,” Nees said.

"We cannot afford that, the history of Zimbabwean football is a little bit rocky and we discussed that in length inside the association - we have to give our best, it's our duty.

Nees pointed that he called-up a full strength squad capable of overcoming their neighbors, whom he admits are currently in red-hot form among other African nations.

“It's not an experimental team, you can see the squad, it's experienced players who were there for AFCON qualifiers. The ones that are missing is due to injuries but I think the squad is strong enough to pass this stress test,” he added.

"We don't have to beat around the bush, South Africa is currently among the best in Africa.