Zimbabwe Coach Praises Zambia’s Spirit Despite Decisive Battle of Zambezi Victory

Harare Sports Club erupted in cheers on Sunday as the Zimbabwe National Rugby team delivered a commanding performance in the first leg of the Battle of Zambezi, securing a decisive 70-15 victory over their Zambian counterparts. However, despite the comfortable scoreline, Zimbabwe head coach Piet Benade was quick to acknowledge the resilience and fighting spirit of the Zambian side, describing them as a tough opponent.

While the scoreboard painted a picture of Zimbabwean dominance, Coach Benade offered a more nuanced perspective on the encounter. “I think it was a very tough game, despite the scoreboard,” Benade stated, showcasing respect for their neighbors. “I think this [Zambia] team could be proud of what they did, especially after the red card that happened early in the match.”

Indeed, Zambia faced an uphill battle from the early stages, playing the majority of the game with a man down. Yet, they continued to contest, managing to put 15 points on the board against a formidable Zimbabwean outfit. Benade commended his own team’s clinical execution and dominance but was careful not to diminish Zambia’s efforts.

“From our side, we’re super happy and proud of the effort and the result,” Benade continued, acknowledging his team’s performance. “But we know that the Zambians were tougher; they made us work very hard for our win.”

This gracious assessment from the winning coach speaks volumes about the nature of the Battle of Zambezi rivalry. It’s a contest where respect underlies the competitive spirit, and even in a one-sided affair, the tenacity of the opposition is recognized.

For Zimbabwe, this emphatic victory provides a significant advantage heading into the second leg. The dominant performance will undoubtedly boost their confidence and solidify their belief in their game plan. Their structured play and clinical finishing proved too much for Zambia on the day, highlighting their preparedness and tactical execution.

However, Benade’s words serve as a reminder that the Battle of Zambezi is a two-legged affair, and Zambia will be eager to right the wrongs from this first encounter on their home turf. The early red card undeniably hampered their efforts, and with a full complement of players, they will be aiming to showcase their true potential.

The return leg on March 31, promises to be an exciting encounter as Zambia seeks to overturn a substantial deficit and demonstrate the toughness that Coach Benade alluded to. While Zimbabwe will be buoyed by their commanding victory, they will be wary of a Zambian team determined to prove their mettle and fight for national pride in front of their own supporters. The Battle of Zambezi narrative is far from over, and the second installment is eagerly anticipated.