WARRIORS striker Shingi Kawondera has finally landed a contract with French
second division club Lorient.
The Warriors hit-man, who finished the leading goalscorer in Zimbabwe’s
campaign for a place at the 2006 World Cup/African Cup of Nations finals with four
goals, signed a pre-contract with the French club.
Benjani Mwaruwari, who organised the trials for his striking partner, confirmed yesterday
Kawondera had signed for the French club. “Shingi has signed for Lorient after impressing
them during trials. It is a good development for him. He has already gone back home to attend
to his mother who is not feeling well,” said Mwaruwari.
Lorient are fighting for promotion into the French League 1, the equivalent of the domestic
Premier-ship. They are on fourth position with 31 points from 18 matches on the current log standings.
They are trailing log leaders Sedan, second-placed Valenciennes and third placed Bastia.
Kawondera could find himself playing in the same league as fellow Zimbabwean Harlington Shereni
next season if the latter’s, club Guingamp, survives the chop at the end of the season.
Guingamp are fighting relegation with paltry a 17 points from 18 matches and their chances
of escaping the axe are very slim.
Kawondera has been clubless since he left his Cyprus club Paphos Athletic. Kawondera joined others in
camp ahead of the African Cup of Nations finals late yesterday.
The Warriors are in Group D which has been dubbed the “Group of death”. The group comprises four
time African Champions Ghana, Nigeria and 2002 World Cup quarter finalists Senegal. The Warriors
will start their campaign against the Teranga Lions of Senegal.
