Zimbabwe’s preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have been dealt a significant setback with the withdrawal of midfielder Andy Rinomhota from the national team camp, just a day before the Warriors’ Group B opener against record champions Egypt. The Reading FC star announced the decision via social media, citing an urgent family matter that requires his immediate attention.
Rinomhota expressed deep disappointment at missing the tournament, which represents one of the highest stages of international football. “I wish to inform the public that I have had to withdraw from the Zimbabwe Men’s National Team camp, effective immediately, due to an urgent family matter that requires my full personal attention,” he wrote. He explained that while he was fully committed to representing his country, the timing of the personal situation meant he was not in the right mental space to contribute fully to the team.
In his statement, Rinomhota reflected on the pride he has always felt in wearing the national team jersey. “I am deeply gutted to miss out on a tournament of this magnitude. Representing Zimbabwe at the highest level has always been a source of pride, and while I was fully committed to this opportunity, the timing of this family matter means I am not in the right psychological space to give the team my very best.”
He reassured fans that his decision was made thoughtfully and not taken lightly. Rinomhota also reaffirmed his dedication to the national team and his intention to return to action once the family matter is resolved. “I remain fully committed to the national team and look forward to returning to duty once the family matter has been resolved,” he said.
Rinomhota extended his well-wishes to his teammates and the technical staff, emphasizing that he would support the Warriors wholeheartedly from afar. “I would like to wish my teammates and the entire technical group the very best at the tournament. I will be supporting them wholeheartedly and praying that Zimbabwe goes all the way,” he wrote. He also thanked the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for their support and understanding during the difficult period, while respectfully requesting privacy for himself and his family.
Zimbabwe Warriors Suffer Blow as Andy Rinomhota Withdraws Ahead of AFCON Opener
Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica has not announced a replacement for Rinomhota, meaning the squad will have to rely on its remaining midfield options. The current midfield roster includes captain Marvelous Nakamba, Jonah Fabisch, Prosper Padera, Tawanda Chirewa, and Knowledge Musona. Each of these players will now face added responsibility as Zimbabwe navigates a challenging Group B, which also features South Africa, Angola, and of course, Egypt.
The withdrawal of Rinomhota is particularly untimely given the Warriors’ opening match against Egypt, a team with a storied history in the tournament. Zimbabwe has historically struggled against the Pharaohs, and the absence of Rinomhota—who brings defensive solidity and passing range to the midfield—could impact the team’s ability to control the game against a technically gifted Egyptian side.
The Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed Rinomhota’s withdrawal and reiterated their support for the player, acknowledging the personal nature of his situation. ZIFA officials emphasized that while the squad must adapt to the setback, the focus remains on achieving a strong start to the tournament.
Despite the blow, Marinica remains confident in his squad’s depth and preparation. The team has been in Morocco for pre-tournament training, acclimatizing to conditions and refining tactics for their demanding group matches. While Rinomhota’s absence is regrettable, the Warriors are determined to compete at the highest level and make an impact in the tournament.
Zimbabwe now shifts all attention to the crucial opener against Egypt, which will test the resilience and adaptability of the squad. Marinica will have to adjust his midfield strategy to account for Rinomhota’s absence, relying on the remaining players to step up and deliver performances capable of challenging one of Africa’s most successful teams.
As the AFCON kicks off, Zimbabwe supporters will be hoping that the team can overcome this early setback and demonstrate the strength, unity, and fighting spirit needed to make a memorable campaign, even without one of their key midfielders. Rinomhota’s personal sacrifice serves as a reminder that the challenges of international football extend beyond the pitch, and the Warriors will now aim to honor his support through their performance in Morocco.
Source- iHarare
