Zimbabwe drew 2-2 with Benin in World Cup Qualifiers despite a goalkeeper error. Benin initially led with two goals before Zimbabwe equalized through captain Munetsi and Knowledge Musona. Jordan Zemura notably assisted in both goals. This draw places Zimbabwe last in Group C, setting up a pivotal match against Nigeria next.
In the World Cup Qualifiers, Zimbabwe managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Benin, despite an early error from goalkeeper Washington Arubi. In the 12th minute, Arubi failed to control a back pass, enabling Benin’s Dokou Dodo to set up Steve Mounie, who scored the opening goal.
Following this setback, Benin capitalized on their momentum, with Dokou Dodo netting a second goal in the 35th minute after a series of good passes within the box. The Warriors fought back, however, as their captain Marshall Munetsi scored a goal from a back pass by Jordan Zemura, concluding the first half with a score of 2-1 in favor of Benin.
During halftime, Zimbabwe’s coach Michael Nees introduced Tawanda Chirewa in place of striker Prince Dube, while Knowledge Musona moved to a central forward position. This tactical change bore fruit in the 59th minute when Musona equalized, finishing a pass from Zemura following a free kick.
With an opportunity to take the lead, Musona was thwarted by Benin’s defense after another assist from Zemura. Nees made further substitutions in the 83rd minute, bringing on Tawanda Maswanhise and Terrence Dzvukamanja for Musona and Khama Billiat. Although he did not score, Jordan Zemura was instrumental for Zimbabwe, contributing two assists that secured a valuable point for the team.
Following this result, Zimbabwe is at the bottom of Group C with 3 points, while Benin ascended to the top with 8 points. The Warriors will aim for victory in their upcoming match against Nigeria on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.
The Zimbabwe national football team demonstrated resilience by achieving a 2-2 draw against Benin in the World Cup Qualifiers, despite an initial setback due to a goalkeeper’s blunder. Key players like captain Marshall Munetsi and Jordan Zemura contributed crucial goals and assists, providing hope for upcoming matches. With their next challenge against Nigeria looming, the Warriors must strive for a win to improve their standing in the qualifiers.
Original Source: allafrica.com
