Zimbabwe has announced a 23-man squad for World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Head coach Michael Nees recalled Knowledge Musona, with support from players in Europe and South Africa. Nigeria, struggling in their group, also named a strong squad led by Victor Osimhen. These matches are critical for both teams’ World Cup qualification hopes.
Zimbabwe has announced a 23-man squad for their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria later this month. The Warriors currently sit at the bottom of Group C with two points from two matches, and their campaign will resume against Benin on March 20, followed by a clash with Nigeria five days later, as they strive to revive their qualification hopes.
Head coach Michael Nees has made notable inclusions, recalling former captain Knowledge Musona. The squad features several players based in Europe and South Africa, with Musona currently playing for Al-Okhdood in Saudi Arabia. Other significant players include Marshall Munetsi from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Andy Rinomhota from Cardiff City, fortifying the midfield.
The defensive line includes Jordan Zemura of Udinese, Munashe Garananga from FC Copenhagen, and Divine Lunga of Mamelodi Sundowns. The goalkeeping department consists of Brentford’s Marley Tavaziva alongside Washington Arubi from Marumo Gallants and Martin Mapisa from MWOS FC. Additionally, attacking players such as Prince Dube from Young Africans and Tawanda Maswanhise from Motherwell have been named.
Zimbabwe will face Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban before traveling to Uyo, Nigeria, for their match against the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on March 25. Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has also announced his squad, featuring African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, as well as captain William Troost-Ekong and several players based in England.
The Super Eagles are currently positioned fifth in Group C with three points and will face Rwanda before their encounter with Zimbabwe. Both teams are in urgent need of points, making these fixtures potentially pivotal for their World Cup qualification efforts.
In summary, Zimbabwe has assembled a competitive squad for their critical World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria, incorporating key players including Knowledge Musona and Marshall Munetsi. As both Zimbabwe and Nigeria prepare for these decisive matches, the outcomes will significantly influence their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. With both teams eager for points, fans can anticipate compelling encounters ahead.
Original Source: soccernet.ng
