Michael Nees names a 23-man squad for Zimbabwe’s World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Benin. Key players include Jordan Zemura and Marshall Munetsi, while captain Marvelous Nakamba is sidelined due to injury. The Warriors face a tough battle, currently at the bottom of Group C, yet Nees remains hopeful for qualification despite the challenges ahead.
Zimbabwe’s head coach, Michael Nees, has announced a 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic and Nigeria. Notable selections include Udinese defender Jordan Zemura, Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Marshall Munetsi, and forward Walter Musona, who makes a surprise return after retiring in 2022. However, team captain Marvelous Nakamba has been excluded from the squad due to injury.
The Warriors will face Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on March 20, before traveling to Nigeria to challenge the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on March 25. Currently, Zimbabwe stands at the bottom of Group C with just two points from four matches, yet Nees retains hope for their chances of qualification.
“It’s a very tight group; there are still six games to go and 18 points to play for,” Nees remarked, highlighting the uncertainty of the group standings. He emphasized the need for his team to remain competitive until the last game.
Addressing the upcoming match against Benin, Nees recognized the challenge presented by Gernot Rohr, the experienced coach of the Cheetahs. He stated, “Benin beat Nigeria, they played a draw against Nigeria, and they qualified for AFCON,” underscoring Benin’s capabilities in the tournament. Nees concluded that, despite their acquaintance, friendship would take a backseat during the match.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s football team, under coach Michael Nees, prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. The squad includes several key players, despite the absence of injured captain Marvelous Nakamba. With hopes for qualification still alive, the Warriors aim to deliver strong performances in both matches, amidst tough competition from their opponents, particularly Benin, managed by the seasoned Gernot Rohr.
Original Source: businessday.ng
