Taifa Stars Brazilian coach Marcio Maximo is expected to announce his final squad selection today that would board Abidjan-bound flight for the inaugural Championship of African Nations tourney.
His selection will be limited to 23 players and he is not expected to have major changes from his previous squad.
“CHAN will be a tough competition and therefore we would take account of including more experienced players with a blend of young blood,“ said Maximo.
The team`s doctor, Juma Sufian, said all players who sustained injuries have improved and started training session since yesterday.
Midfielder Nizar, who sustained injury during last week’s build up match against Zimbabwe that ended in a barren draw, has also recovered.
Inspirational midfielder Athumani Idd has been reported to have recovered from malaria bout that sidelined him from the friendly against visiting Zimbabweans.
Stars are expected to leave for Abidjan on Thursday, three days ahead of their Sunday opener against Zambia.
Stars are pooled in Group `A` with Senegal, Zambia and the hosts Ivory Coast while Group `B` has Ghana, Zimbabwe, Libya and DR Congo.
Meanwhile, Young Africans players are expected to join Stars today after completing club assignment in CAF Champions League against Comoro’s Etoile d’Or Mirontsy last Sunday.
Yanga are expected to return today after successfully winning their match by 6-0 goals to advance on the first round by a hefty 14-1 goal aggregates.
- SOURCE: Guardian
