Zimbabwe’s Warriors are keen to defeat Benin in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, having struggled so far with only two points from four matches. Vice-Captain Marshall Munetsi highlighted the significance of the game, indicating a loss could compromise their chances of progressing. The match will mark a pivotal moment under new coach Michael Nees following previous coaching challenges and impending encounters with Nigeria.

Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, is eagerly seeking a victory against Benin in order to improve their standing in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The match is scheduled to take place on Thursday at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa. Currently, Zimbabwe occupies the bottom position in Group C, with only two points from four matches, while Benin is in second place with seven points, tied with Rwanda and South Africa at the top.

Vice-Captain Marshall Munetsi emphasized the importance of this match, stating that a loss would severely jeopardize their World Cup hopes. He acknowledged Benin’s recent success, including their qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), suggesting that the Warriors must not underestimate their opponent. Munetsi remarked, “For us it’s not an easy game but we do have to take it as a final because if we do not pick a positive result tomorrow it will then be difficult for us to continue with our campaign.”

The Warriors have had a challenging start to their qualification campaign, with interim coach Baltermir Brito recording two draws against Rwanda and Nigeria before the team suffered two defeats against Lesotho and South Africa under the management of Jairos Tapera. The upcoming match will mark the first World Cup Qualifier game for Michael Nees, who was appointed in July 2022 and recently led the team to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Munetsi reflected on the team’s progress under Nees, stating, “We didn’t really start well; we had a rebuilding phase especially in the first two World Cup qualifying games, but I think since our coach Michael Nees came on board, we have really progressed very well and everybody has been really confident. So going into the game, Nees and his team have played their role and it’s now up to us to deliver on the pitch.”

Following the game against Benin, Zimbabwe will face Nigeria five days later at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, adding further significance to the upcoming matches in their qualification journey.

In conclusion, the Warriors of Zimbabwe are under pressure to secure a win against Benin in the World Cup Qualifiers to remain competitive in Group C. With Marshall Munetsi emphasizing the stakes of the match, and the return of key player Knowledge Musona providing encouragement, the team is positioned to capitalize on their recent progress under Coach Michael Nees. Upcoming matches against Nigeria will further test their resolve in the qualification process.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com

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