Zimbabwe will host Benin in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday at 6 PM CAT. This neutral ground match features key team updates, including player absences. The game will be broadcast live on ZBC TV and streamed via the FIFA Plus app, with live updates from Soccer24. Both coaches emphasize the importance of the match as they prepare their teams for competition.
On Thursday, Zimbabwe will face Benin in their fifth match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, taking place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, at 6 PM CAT. The location is neutral due to the lack of available approved stadiums in Zimbabwe. This encounter marks the first meeting between the two teams in recent years.
The game will be broadcast live by ZBC TV, accessible via terrestrial feed, DStv Zimbabwe, and Zim Digital Decoder. Viewers can also stream the match live on the FIFA Plus app, while Soccer24 will provide live updates. SABC Sport and SuperSport TV have not yet confirmed their television coverage.
Michael Nees, coach of the Warriors, expressed confidence stating, “Benin have a good quality… But we have to take it with positivity and self-confidence, and give everything in our power to deliver a good performance.” Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr, acknowledged the rivalry, saying, “It’s a match everyone wants to win. We respect our opponents, who qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations and have a very good coaching staff.”
Team news indicates that Zimbabwe has recalled former captain Knowledge Musona, who previously retired from international duty in 2022. Current captain Marvelous Nakamba is absent due to injury, being substituted by Richard Hachiro. Isheanesu Mauchi is the only player on the squad without prior caps. For Benin, several players from recent matches remain, excluding Candas Fiogbé, a newcomer whose start is uncertain. Key absentees include Olivier Verdon, Tosin Aiyegun, and Cédric Hountondji.
In terms of form, Zimbabwe has recorded two draws and two losses (DDLL), placing them in sixth position, while Benin boasts a record of one loss and two wins (LDWW), securing the top spot in the group. According to FIFA rankings, Zimbabwe is positioned at 121, whereas Benin is ranked at 94.
In summary, the upcoming match between Zimbabwe and Benin in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers is a crucial encounter for both teams. Zimbabwe aims to improve its standings while Benin seeks to maintain its top position. Key players will be absent, which could impact both squads. The match promises to be exciting as both coaches express determination and respect for each other’s squads.
Original Source: www.soccer24.co.zw
