The Zimbabwe national football team drew 2-2 with Benin in a World Cup Qualifier match, recovering from an early mistake by goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Goals by Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona equalized for Zimbabwe after Benin initially led 2-1. Jordan Zemura’s two assists highlighted the team’s efforts, though they remain at the bottom of Group C as they look ahead to their next match against Nigeria.
In their World Cup Qualifier match, Zimbabwe earned a 2-2 draw against Benin, despite a glaring mistake by goalkeeper Washington Arubi. In the 12th minute, Arubi mishandled a back pass, allowing Benin’s Dokou Dodo to assist Steve Mounie, who opened the scoring for the Cheetahs.
Following this error, Benin maintained their dominance, adding to their lead with a goal from Dokou Dodo in the 35th minute, following effective passing in the box. The Warriors managed a response before halftime, as captain Marshall Munetsi netted a goal initiated by Jordan Zemura’s back pass, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
At the start of the second half, Warriors coach Michael Nees made tactical changes, substituting striker Prince Dube for Tawanda Chirewa and shifting Knowledge Musona to a more central role. This strategy paid off when Musona equalized in the 59th minute with a well-placed shot from a free kick.
Despite a near chance for Musona to score again later, as well as tactical substitutions in the 83rd minute that brought Tawanda Maswanhise and Terrence Dzvukamanja on, the match ended in a draw. Jordan Zemura stood out for Zimbabwe, providing two crucial assists during the game.
Following the draw, Zimbabwe remains at the bottom of Group C with three points, while Benin ascends to the top with eight points. The Warriors are now focused on their upcoming match against Nigeria, seeking a vital victory.
In summary, the match showcased Zimbabwe’s resilience in the face of adversity, overcoming an early blunder by Washington Arubi to secure a draw against Benin. The tactical decisions made by Coach Michael Nees, particularly the impactful play of Knowledge Musona and key assists from Jordan Zemura, emphasize the Warriors’ potential as they prepare for their crucial fixture against Nigeria. The result leaves Zimbabwe with much to prove in their subsequent matches in the qualifiers.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
