Zimbabwe Warriors left-back Divine Lunga has made it clear that club loyalties will be put aside when his country faces South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in a decisive encounter on Monday evening.
The Mamelodi Sundowns defender says friendship and familiarity will not soften the intensity of a match that carries national pride and high stakes.
Devine Lunga: Club friendships put on hold
Lunga, who shares a dressing room with several South African internationals at Sundowns, admitted that relationships will be tested once the whistle blows.
“Yes we are friends, we are team mates, we are brothers, but in the field I don’t think there is anyone who would say ‘this is my brother’ because that’s the game. The game is like that so you have to put your A game.”
He stressed that professionalism demands total commitment, regardless of personal ties.
Lunga Fighting for the badge
The Warriors defender said representing Zimbabwe remains his top priority, especially in a match of such importance.
“Then after the game, the friendship can still be on. We are not fighting, we are just playing the game. 100% I have to fight for the badge, for my country.”
Lunga added that he is fully prepared to give everything on the pitch.
“I think I am gonna put my A game and fight for the badge.”
High stakes showdown on Monday
Zimbabwe and South Africa face off on Monday at 6pm in a match expected to draw huge attention from both sides of the border.
With pride, momentum and progression on the line, Lunga’s message reflects the mindset inside the Warriors’ camp, respect the opponent, but fight relentlessly for the nation.
Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana must secure at least a point against Zimbabwe on matchday three of AFCON to guarantee a place in the Round of 16, provided Egypt do not lose to Angola.
If Bafana Bafana suffer defeat, they will have to rely on finishing among the four best third-placed teams to progress.