Knowledge Musona has been recalled to the Zimbabwe national football team after a three-year absence, enhancing their chances for FIFA World Cup qualification. His experience will be vital in upcoming qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. The squad balances seasoned athletes with rising stars, aiming for a strong performance to secure advancement in the qualifiers.
Zimbabwe’s national football team has received a significant boost with the recall of Knowledge Musona, following a three-year absence. This development is particularly vital as Zimbabwe aims for their first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup, with Musona participating in crucial 2026 qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Previously retired from international football, Musona is currently playing for Al-Okhdood in Saudi Arabia and is expected to bring valuable experience and leadership to the squad.
The Warriors’ roster underlines a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. The defensive line will benefit from the stability offered by Jordan Zemura of Udinese and Divine Lunga from Mamelodi Sundowns. Furthermore, midfield duties will be entrusted to Marshall Munetsi of Reims and Marvelous Nakamba from Luton Town, who will enhance both defense and creativity in attack.
In the forward position, Prince Dube (Young Africans) and Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell) will strive to deliver goals, complemented by the promising young talent Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town). Their immediate challenge awaits in a must-win match against Benin on March 20 in Durban, followed by a daunting encounter with Nigeria—set to be one of their most challenging tests in the qualifiers.
The current qualifications have posed struggles for the team, making a positive outcome against Benin imperative for boosting morale ahead of facing Nigeria’s illustrious Super Eagles.
The squad comprises:
Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).
Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos).
Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi (Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Mihood, Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town), Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood).
Forwards: Prince Dube (Young Africans), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tymon Machope (Scotland), Walter Musona (Scotland).
In conclusion, the return of Knowledge Musona to the Zimbabwean national football team significantly enhances their prospects for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His seasoned presence, coupled with a well-rounded squad of experienced players and emerging talent, positions the Warriors to make a formidable challenge. Crucial matches against Benin and Nigeria will determine their qualification viability and require strong performances.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com