Zimbabwe has reinvigorated its World Cup qualification campaign with Knowledge Musona’s return after a three-year absence from the national team. Scheduled to face Benin and Nigeria in crucial qualifiers, Musona’s leadership alongside a blend of experienced players and emerging talents is expected to strengthen the Warriors’ chances of historic success.
Zimbabwe has received a significant boost in its drive to qualify for its inaugural FIFA World Cup with the recall of Knowledge Musona to the Warriors squad after a three-year hiatus. The former national team captain previously announced his retirement from international football but has now accepted a call-up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. His experience and leadership are seen as invaluable for a squad aiming to achieve historical success.
Musona’s inclusion highlights a well-rounded squad that blends seasoned internationals with emerging talents. The Warriors’ defense will rely on the expertise of Jordan Zemura from Udinese and Divine Lunga of Mamelodi Sundowns, whose backgrounds in high-stakes football will seek to ensure defensive stability.
In the midfield, Marshall Munetsi from Reims and Marvelous Nakamba of Luton Town are expected to set the pace, combining defensive prowess with attacking creativity. Up front, Prince Dube from Young Africans and Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell will lead the offensive charge, complemented by the promising young talent Tawanda Chirewa from Huddersfield Town.
The Warriors are scheduled to play Benin on March 20 in Durban, an essential match for keeping their World Cup hopes alive. Following that, they will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Uyo, a formidable opponent that presents one of their toughest challenges in the qualifying campaign. Securing a positive result against Benin is crucial to building momentum before facing a strong Nigerian side.
The squad features a mix of players across various clubs, ensuring depth and experience in all positions. The list includes:
Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)
Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)
Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi (Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Mihood, Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town), Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood)
Forwards: Prince Dube (Young Africans), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tymon Machope (Scotland), Walter Musona (Scotland)
In summary, Knowledge Musona’s return to the Zimbabwe national team marks a pivotal moment for the Warriors as they prepare for critical World Cup qualifiers. His experience, blended with the skills of seasoned players and promising newcomers, serves to enhance the team’s prospects. The upcoming matches against Benin and Nigeria could greatly impact Zimbabwe’s qualification journey, making each game crucial for their aspirations.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
