President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced a US$150,000 bonus for each victory by Zimbabwe’s Warriors in their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. If successful, the team could earn a total of US$300,000, alongside US$1 million pledged for their AFCON campaign. This pledge underscores the government’s commitment to football despite challenges faced with stadium approvals.
On Thursday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a significant incentive for the Zimbabwean national men’s football team, the Warriors, offering a bonus of US$150,000 for each victory in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Should the team win both matches, they would receive a total of US$300,000, in addition to a pledged amount of US$1 million for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
This financial incentive comes amid challenges faced by Zimbabwe in hosting international matches, primarily due to the absence of a FIFA-approved stadium. Currently, the Warriors are compelled to play their home fixtures in South Africa. The National Sports Stadium in Harare is the closest venue to meeting international standards but has been under renovation since 2020 following the Confederation of African Football (CAF) alerting the government to its inadequacies.
The announcement regarding the bonus was made by Nqobile Magwizi, the President of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA). However, he did not clarify whether the funds are sourced from the president’s personal finances or represent a government allocation. Magwizi emphasized the government’s steadfast commitment to enhancing football in Zimbabwe and fulfilling the Warriors’ aspirations for World Cup qualification.
He further implored the nation to unify in support of the team, expressing that they embody national hopes and pride in their pursuit of the World Cup. Notably, Zimbabwe is striving to achieve qualification for their inaugural FIFA World Cup.
In conclusion, President Mnangagwa’s pledge of a US$150,000 bonus per match victory aims to incentivize the Warriors in their FIFA World Cup qualification matches. The government has also committed US$1 million for their ongoing AFCON campaign, despite ongoing challenges with stadium facilities. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to strengthening football in Zimbabwe and fostering national unity around the Warriors’ quest for World Cup qualification.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
