President Emmerson Mnangagwa pledged US$150,000 bonus per victory for Zimbabwe’s Warriors in FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. If victorious, the total could reach US$300,000, supplementing a US$1 million commitment for AFCON. The Warriors are facing challenges as they must play home matches in South Africa due to stadium issues.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced a substantial bonus of US$150,000 for Zimbabwe’s national men’s football team, the Warriors, for each victory in their forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Should the team succeed in both matches on March 20 and March 25, they would secure a total of US$300,000, in addition to the US$1 million already allocated for their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
This financial pledge was revealed amidst challenges faced by Zimbabwe in hosting international matches due to the lack of FIFA-approved stadiums. Consequently, the Warriors will play their home fixtures in South Africa, as the National Sports Stadium in Harare is currently under renovation and was flagged by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 2020 for not meeting required standards.
Nqobile Magwizi, president of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), confirmed the announcement but did not specify whether the funds would come from the president’s personal resources or from government funds. He stated, “This support underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the growth and success of football in Zimbabwe and the aspirations of the Warriors as they strive for World Cup qualification.”
Magwizi also encouraged the nation to support the Warriors, stating, “The nation is urged to rally behind the team, as they carry our hopes and pride onto the field. Zimbabwe stands united behind the Warriors.” This financial backing may act as a significant morale booster as the Warriors aim to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
In summary, President Mnangagwa’s pledge of a US$150,000 bonus per victory for the Warriors demonstrates governmental support for Zimbabwean football. The upcoming qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria are pivotal for the team’s aspirations of World Cup qualification. The financial incentive, alongside the existing budget for AFCON preparations, aims to bolster the Warriors’ morale as they prepare for critical matches despite hosting challenges.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com
