Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane — Zimbabwe’s Warriors secured their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a determined performance in a 1-1 draw against Kenya last night. The result ensures their qualification with a game to spare in Group J.
Under the guidance of German coach Michael Nees, Zimbabwe continued their impressive campaign, remaining unbeaten with two wins and three draws, including results against group heavyweights Cameroon and Kenya. Nees becomes only the second foreign coach to lead Zimbabwe to AFCON qualification, and the first to achieve it while playing all home games on foreign soil.
Maswanhise Magic Secures Zimbabwe’s Dream
Youngster Tawanda Maswanhise, making his first start for the Warriors, put Zimbabwe ahead in the 32nd minute with a composed finish following a brilliant assist from Khama Billiat. His performance electrified the crowd and gave Zimbabwe the perfect start in this crucial match.
Kenya, however, responded early in the second half, with Jonah Ayunga capitalizing on a defensive lapse to equalize in the 52nd minute. Despite a nervy finish, Zimbabwe held firm, with key interventions from Teenage Hadebe and Jordan Zemura ensuring they left with the result they needed.
Historic Achievement for the Warriors
The Warriors’ qualification marks their second consecutive AFCON appearance achieved with a game to spare, following a similar feat in the 2021 campaign under Croatian coach Zdravko Logarusic. The victory was especially poignant as the team dedicated the achievement to the late goalkeeper George Chigova, a national hero who passed away a year ago.
Coach Nees praised his players for their resilience and composure under pressure:
“It was a nervy start, but the players gave their all and showed great character. We’re proud to have achieved this for Zimbabwe.”
Unbeaten Streak and Group J Standing
With nine points from five games, Zimbabwe sit comfortably in second place behind Cameroon, who they will face on Tuesday. A win against Cameroon would see the Warriors top Group J, a feat that Nees has set as their next objective.
A Home Away from Home
The qualification was bittersweet, as Zimbabwe played all their home matches in South Africa due to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) deeming local stadiums inadequate. However, the Warriors turned the Peter Mokaba Stadium into a fortress, with a passionate crowd backing them to success.
Squad Contributions and Future Aspirations
Key contributions from experienced players like Marvelous Nakamba, Khama Billiat, and Walter Musona, combined with the youthful energy of Maswanhise and Zemura, underline the balance in this squad. With their spot in Morocco secured, Zimbabwe now shifts focus to building momentum for a strong showing at AFCON 2025.
Qualified Teams for AFCON 2025
Morocco (hosts), Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, DR Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Teams Last Night:
Zimbabwe: Washington Arubi, Gerald Takwara (Godknows Murwira 56’), Jordan Zemura, Munashe Garan’anga, Marshal Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Marvelous Nakamba, Khama Billiat, Walter Musona (Divine Lunga 75’), Tawanda Maswanhise (Terrence Dzvukamanja 75’), Teenage Hadebe.
Kenya: Byrne Amondi, Daniel Anyembe, Amos Obiero, Ronney Onyango, Michael Olunga, Eric Otieno, Anthony Agay, Jonestone Omorwa, Abud Abud, Joseph Okumu (Charles Momanyi 57’), Jonah Ayunga.