Swazi Observer

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GIVE LOGA A CHANCE - SCARA

By MGCINI DUBE | 2024-11-02

SOCCER - Sihlangu Semnikati legend and former Kaizer Chiefs icon Absalom ‘Scara’ Thindwa has thrown his full support behind national team head coach Zdravko Logaruši?, urging the nation to give the Croatian -born tactician a fair chance to leave his mark.
As the nation’s pride prepares to take on Zimbabwe in the second leg of the CHAN Qualifiers this evening at Mbombela Stadium, Thindwa has emphasised the need for patience and unity in backing the new coach.

Kick-off for this crucial clash is set for 6 pm with Sihlangu heading into the match on the back of a resounding 3-0 victory over Zimbabwe in their first leg encounter, held at Obed Itan Chilume Stadium in Francistown Botswana last weekend. The win has boosted optimism among fans, and Thindwa believes that the national team was capable of even more under Logaruši?’s leadership.

“He has managed about three games so far and from what I have seen, we need to give him a chance because you can see a difference in the team’s performances. Most recently, they managed to beat Zimbabwe, which is no small feat,” he said.
Thindwa acknowledged the visible improvements in Sihlangu's play since Logaruši? took over but also highlighted the importance of giving the coach ample time to implement his strategies.

When asked whether he believes Sihlangu could qualify for their first-ever continental competition this year, Thindwa was cautiously optimistic.

“It will depend on the amount of time the coach is given to implement his tactics and vision into the squad. Normally in Eswatini, our local players only get a week of national team camp before playing their matches. This is a significant factor that contributes to the performances we see from the team,” Thindwa added.

‘Scara’ stressed that for Sihlangu to have a better chance of success in their upcoming matches, Logaruši? must be afforded enough time to prepare and drill the squad. He believes that adequate preparation would enhance the team’s overall performance and boost their chances of qualification.

“At this point, it is difficult to say as the coach is still new, and there are still more games to be played before we can qualify. But if he gets enough time with the players, it would certainly improve our chances,” he said.

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