Zimbabawe Warriors Seek Critical Win Against Benin in World Cup Qualifiers
The Zimbabwe Warriors are in urgent need of a victory against Benin in the World Cup Qualifiers, currently placed last in Group C. With only two points from four matches, they face a strong Benin team that has qualified for AFCON. Vice Captain Marshall Munetsi highlights the match’s importance, emphasizing that it is essential for their campaign. Coach Michael Nees has instilled confidence in the team as they prepare for this crucial encounter.
The Zimbabwe national football team, known as the Warriors, is in dire need of a victory against Benin to sustain its hopes in Group C of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The pivotal match is set to take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa. Currently, Zimbabwe occupies the last position in the group, having accrued only two points across four matches, while Benin stands second with seven points, tied with group leaders Rwanda and third-placed South Africa.
The return of key player Knowledge Musona is viewed as a significant advantage for the Warriors, who are eager to secure their first win in this qualifying round. Vice Captain Marshall Munetsi acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Benin, stating that they have performed well and achieved qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). “Benin have been doing well and they have qualified for AFCON, so it’s not a team that we take lightly because they are where they are for a reason and we have to respect them,” Munetsi remarked.
Indeed, Munetsi emphasized the importance of treating this match as a final, underscoring that a defeat would likely diminish their chances of progressing in the campaign. The Warriors’ campaign commenced earlier in 2023 under the guidance of interim coach Baltermir Brito, who managed two draws against Rwanda and Nigeria but succumbed to losses against Lesotho and South Africa under coach Jairos Tapera.
The upcoming match will mark the first World Cup Qualifier for Michael Nees since his appointment last July, which included leading the team to qualify for the 2025 Morocco AFCON. Munetsi expressed optimism regarding the team’s improvement under Nees, noting, “I think since our coach Michael Nees came on board, we have really progressed very well and everybody has been really confident.”
Following the encounter with Benin, Zimbabwe will face Nigeria five days later at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, presenting further challenges in their qualification journey.
In conclusion, the Zimbabwe Warriors face a critical match against Benin in the World Cup Qualifiers, seeking a much-needed victory to enhance their standing in Group C. With the return of Knowledge Musona and under new coach Michael Nees, there is a renewed sense of confidence within the team. However, they must navigate this challenge carefully, acknowledging the strength of their opponents. A positive result against Benin is essential for Zimbabwe’s aspirations moving forward in the qualifying tournament.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
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