Kenya 2-0 Zimbabwe

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – Zimbabwe’s defensive frailties were on display once again as they conceded two second half goals in a 2-0 defeat to Kenya on Tuesday, which eliminated them from the COSAFA Cup currently underway in South Africa.

The defeat relegated the Warriors to third in a tight Group B on goal difference, after they gained six points from their wins against Comoros and Zambia.

Missing their star forward Michael Tapera, who sat this one out through suspension Zimbabwe did not offer much as an offensive unit but kept the Kenyans in check in a goalless first half.

But they were breached just nine minutes after the break as Austin Odhiambo was allowed to turn and find the far post with several Zimbabwean defenders in attendance.

There was not much damage done at that point, and Zimbabwe were still top of the group even with eventual group winners Comoros winning 1-0 over Zambia.

Jairos Tapera’s men were undone on 73 minutes when a long ball deceived captain Godknows Murwira allowing Benson Omala to ghost behind and lift the ball over an advancing Raphael Pitisi, who will feel he should have done better.

It was caretaker coach Tapera’s third defeat in five matches, although they played the COSAFA tournament with fringe players.