(April 21,2005) The Zimbabwe Under-17 team’s technical department is convinced that the two friendly matches which they played against Amajimbos has given them an insight into what to expect at the Championships in Gambia next month. The two Southern Africa powerhouses are in the same group along with Nigeria and Ivory Coast in the 7-21 May showcase in tiny West Africa country.

Speaking upon arrival back from the tour of duty in South Africa where the two neighbours played two friendlies at Orlando Stadium coach Madinda Ndlovu was putting up a brave face despite drawing 2-2 on Sunday and losing 0-1 last Thursday.

"These games have definitely helped us in a lot of ways. We are certain of what to expect from the South Africans, they play a passing game with a lot of fluidity but that strategy might backfire in Gambia because the West will play a physical game.

"We will now just have to have to how to contend with the big West Africans. We are aware of our weaknesses and strengths that we will need to polish up when we play in probably another friendly before we depart," said Ndlovu, older brother to Mamelodi Sundowns winger Peter.