Zimbabwe has named a 23-man squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. The team, led by coach Michael Nees, features notable players such as Knowledge Musona and Marshall Munetsi. The matches are vital for both teams as they attempt to improve their standings in Group C ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Zimbabwe has announced a 23-man squad for their critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria this month. The Warriors currently find themselves at the bottom of Group C, having obtained only two points from two matches. Their next match will occur against Benin on March 20, followed by a clash with Nigeria on March 25, as they seek to revive their qualification hopes.
Head Coach Michael Nees has reinstated former captain Knowledge Musona to the roster. The squad also includes several players from Europe and South Africa. Musona, who currently plays for Saudi club Al-Okhdood, leads the attack alongside premier talents like Wolverhampton’s Marshall Munetsi and Cardiff City’s Andy Rinomhota, bolstering the midfield presence.
Additional key players, such as Marvelous Nakamba from Luton Town and Tawanda Chirewa of Huddersfield Town, have also been included. The defense welcomes Udinese’s Jordan Zemura, Munashe Garananga from FC Copenhagen, and Divine Lunga of Mamelodi Sundowns, amongst others. Goalkeeping responsibilities will be shared by Brentford’s Marley Tavaziva, Washington Arubi from Marumo Gallants, and Martin Mapisa of MWOS FC.
In terms of offensive options, Coach Nees has enlisted Young Africans’ Prince Dube, Tawanda Maswanhise from Motherwell, and Terrence Dzvukamanja of Supersport United. The full roster further consists of Gerald Takwara, Isheanes Mauchi, Peter Muduhwa, Godknows Murwira, Emmanuel Jalai, Mihood, and Tymon Machope.
Zimbabwe’s upcoming fixtures will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban against Benin, and then at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria. Concurrently, Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle has revealed his squad, featuring reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman leading the forward line, along with Captain William Troost-Ekong and other notable English-based players.
As Nigeria sits fifth in Group C with three points, they will first contest against Rwanda before their essential match against Zimbabwe. Both teams are in urgent need of points, making these matches potentially pivotal in their progress towards the 2026 World Cup qualification.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s announcement of their 23-man squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers reflects a strategy aimed at rejuvenating their campaign against Benin and Nigeria. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, their matches promise significant implications for both the Warriors and the Super Eagles as both teams seek crucial points in the qualification race.
Original Source: soccernet.ng
