Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, is gearing up for a crucial test in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, with Coach Michael Nees unveiling his squad for the September fixtures. The Warriors are set to face Kenya in an away match at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda on September 6, before returning to the same venue four days later to host Cameroon.
The squad announcement has been met with excitement, particularly with the return of Warriors captain Marvelous Nakamba, who has been sidelined throughout the year due to an injury. Nakamba’s return is a significant boost for the team as they prepare for these vital qualifiers. Alongside Nakamba, veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi, currently with Marumo Gallants in South Africa, and forward Prince Dube, who plays for Young Africans, have also made their way back into the squad after an extended period.
Nees’ selection features a mix of experience and fresh talent, with seven local players included in the roster. Ngezi Platinum Stars stands out with two representatives: Richard Hachiro, a midfielder, and Obriel Chirinda, a striker. This local representation highlights the growing importance of domestic leagues in Zimbabwean football.
Interestingly, the Warriors’ new head coach has yet to appoint a first assistant coach. In the interim, Nees will collaborate with Takesure Chiragwi, the coach of Ngezi Platinum Stars and the head coach of the men’s under-23 team. This partnership will be key as the Warriors look to navigate their challenging group in the qualifiers.
Here is the full squad announced by Coach Nees for the upcoming AFCON Qualifiers:
**GOALKEEPERS:**
– Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants)
– Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)
– Bernard Donovan (Chicken Inn)
**DEFENDERS:**
– Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC)
– Brendan Galloway (Plymouth Argyle)
– Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen)
– Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders)
– Godknows Murwira (Caps United)
– Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)
– Teenage Hadebe (unattached)
**MIDFIELDERS:**
– Marshall Munetsi (Stade de Reims)
– Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City)
– Jordan Zemura (Udinese)
– Walter Musona (Simba Bhora)
– Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants)
– Brian Banda (FC Platinum)
– Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell)
– Richard Hachiro (Ngezi Platinum)
– Tawanda Chirewa (Derby County)
**FORWARDS:**
– Tinotenda Kadewere (FC Nantes)
– Douglas Mapfumo (Polokwane City)
– Prince Dube (Young Africans)
– Obriel Chirinda (Ngezi Platinum)
With a squad brimming with talent and a strategic blend of seasoned players and emerging stars, the Warriors are poised to make a strong push in the AFCON qualifiers. Fans will be eagerly watching as the team aims to secure their spot in the prestigious continental tournament.
In other news – Doek and Slay sets a record in Zimbabwe with over 13,000 women attending
The vibrant spirit of Zimbabwean women shone brightly at the Alex Sports Club yesterday as the ‘Doek and Slay’ event reached new heights. With over 13,000 attendees, the event has solidified its reputation as Zimbabwe’s largest outdoor party, setting a new record for turnout. Celebrated for its lively atmosphere and distinctive dress code, the ‘Doek and Slay’ gathering drew an impressive crowd of 13,770 women, all embracing the event’s signature look—denim, white tops, and vibrant doeks.
This year’s edition was marked by its unparalleled scale and festive energy. The event was not just a fashion spectacle but a family-friendly celebration, welcoming children and creating an inclusive environment. Read More
