World Cup Qualifiers: Zimbabwe Unveil Squad for Benin, Nigeria Clashes

• Zimbabwe announce 23-man squad for World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.
• Former captain Knowledge Musona returns alongside several Europe-based players.
• Warriors set to face Benin in Durban before travelling to Nigeria for a crucial clash.

Zimbabwe have announced a 23-man squad for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria later this month.

The Warriors, who are yet to qualify for a World Cup, currently sit at the bottom of Group C with two points from two matches. They resume their campaign against Benin on March 20 before facing Nigeria five days later, hoping to revive their qualification chances.

Head coach Michael Nees has recalled veteran forward and former captain Knowledge Musona, who currently plays for Saudi club Al-Okhdood. The squad also includes several Europe- and South Africa-based players.

EDITOR’S PICKS 

• 7 Fruits You Should Not Eat On Empty Stomach
• Dr. Alausa Champions Innovation and Collaboration in Education
• Ondo Doctor Dies of Lassa Fever After Returning from UK

Musona headlines the attacking selections, while Premier League midfielder Marshall Munetsi (Wolverhampton Wanderers) and Cardiff City’s Andy Rinomhota bolster the midfield. Luton Town’s Marvelous Nakamba and Huddersfield Town’s Tawanda Chirewa also make the cut.

The defensive lineup features Udinese left-back Jordan Zemura, FC Copenhagen’s Munashe Garananga, and Mamelodi Sundowns’ Divine Lunga. Brentford youngster Marley Tavaziva is among the goalkeeping options alongside Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants) and Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).

In attack, Nees has included Young Africans’ Prince Dube, Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise, and Supersport United’s Terrence Dzvukamanja.

The full squad also features: Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Isheanes Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos), Mihood, and Tymon Machope (Scotland).

FURTHER READING

• Man Murders Wife, Hides in Ceiling to Evade Arrest
• Yellow Aboki, Close Ally of Late Bandit Kingpin Bamamu, Eliminated in Zamfara
• ‘We Inherited a Mess’ – Ratcliffe Criticizes Man United Players

Zimbabwe will play Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, before traveling to Uyo, Nigeria, for their clash with the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on March 25.

Meanwhile, Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has also announced his squad, with reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman leading the Super Eagles’ attack.

Watch Our Video Of The Week