Zimbabwe’s coach Michael Nees has announced a 23-man squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Benin. Notable players include Jordan Zemura, Marshall Munetsi, and Walter Musona, while captain Marvelous Nakamba is sidelined due to injury. The Warriors seek to improve their standings in Group C, where they currently have only two points.
Zimbabwe’s head coach, Michael Nees, has announced a 23-member squad for the Warriors’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Benin. Key players include Udinese defender Jordan Zemura, Wolverhampton Wanderers’ midfielder Marshall Munetsi, and veteran forward Walter Musona, who returns to the international stage after his retirement in 2022. However, team captain Marvelous Nakamba will miss the matches due to injury.
The Warriors are set to face Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on March 20, before competing against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on March 25. Currently, Zimbabwe ranks last in Group C, having secured only two points from four matches. Nevertheless, Coach Nees remains optimistic about their chances for qualification.
In his remarks, Nees emphasized the competitive nature of the group, stating, “It’s a very tight group; there are still six games to go and 18 points to play for. The group is not decided yet for any team. The team in the first place can easily drop.” He affirmed the necessity for resilience and competitive spirit until the last game.
Regarding the challenge posed by Benin, Nees recognized the tactical capabilities of their coach, Gernot Rohr, a former Super Eagles coach. He noted, “Benin beat Nigeria, they played a draw against Nigeria, and they qualified for AFCON. They have an experienced coach, Gernot Rohr, whom I have known for 30 years. We are close friends, but friendship won’t play a role in these 90 minutes.”
As Zimbabwe prepares for these critical matches, they aim to enhance their World Cup qualification prospects with strong performances.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s head coach Michael Nees has selected a squad for pivotal upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Despite their current standing at the bottom of Group C, Nees expresses optimism about their chances. The team must confront the tactical challenges posed by Benin while remaining determined to revitalize their qualification hopes. The upcoming matches are crucial for the Warriors’ aspirations in the World Cup.
Original Source: businessday.ng
