Zimbabwe Warriors legend Murape Murape has urged fans to remain patient after the Warriors suffered a 2-1 defeat.
Zimbabwe lost to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a frustrating match that sparked criticism of goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze.
However, Murape believes Chipezeze should not carry the blame for the defeat.
The former Warriors star instead called for a broader analysis of Zimbabwe’s performance.
Murape calls for fair analysis
“We lost 2–1. It hurts, but let’s analyse the game properly,” Murape said.
He acknowledged that Zimbabwe made mistakes during the match.
However, he stressed that the Warriors are still developing as a team.
“The Warriors are a new team, still learning each other and developing as a unit,” he explained.
Murape also discussed the circumstances surrounding both DRC goals.
He said Chipezeze needed defensive cover when he came off his line.
“When the goalkeeper commits to the ball, one of the defenders has to recognise the situation,” Murape said.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe lost possession in an advanced area before DRC quickly punished the mistake.
The timing also frustrated Murape because the second goal arrived just before half-time.
Murape backs Chipezeze
As a result, Murape questioned the decision to single out Chipezeze.
“That is why I don’t understand the rush to make Elvis Chipezeze the scapegoat,” he said.
Instead, he believes Zimbabwe must examine the entire sequence leading to both goals.
That includes the build-up, defensive organisation, positioning and decisions made across the team.
“Football is played by 11 players,” Murape added.
The Warriors legend also urged supporters to give the new team time to develop.
“Yes, analyse the mistakes. Yes, demand improvement. But let’s be fair in our analysis.”
Murape believes the defeat can provide valuable lessons for the Warriors.
“This is a new Warriors team. Give them the opportunity to learn, correct the mistakes and grow together.”
He concluded with a message of support for Chipezeze and the Warriors.
“You win together. You lose together. You improve together. Keep your head up, Elvis.”
The post ‘It hurts’: Murape Murape opens up after Warriors’ DRC defeat appeared first on iHarare News.
