Purpose and Belief: Zimbabwe Aim to Rewrite AFCON History
Zimbabwe captain Marvellous Nakamba says the Warriors are heading to Morocco with belief and a clear mission — to finally break their AFCON group-stage curse.
After two weeks of preparations in Harare, Zimbabwe depart today for their sixth Africa Cup of Nations appearance. Nakamba stressed that responsibility now lies with the players to deliver.
“We go to Morocco with humility, discipline and determination. We are not travelling as tourists, but as competitors,” he said, thanking Government, ZIFA, sponsors and fans for their support.
Drawn in Group B alongside Egypt, South Africa and Angola, the Warriors face a daunting task, but there is growing confidence in the squad under new coach Marian ‘Super Mario’ Marinica, who previously guided Malawi to the knockout stages in 2021.
Zimbabwe will open their campaign against Egypt in Agadir, before facing Angola on Boxing Day and South Africa on December 29 in Marrakech.
“We respect every opponent, but we fear no one,” Nakamba added. “We may not promise goals, but we promise fight, unity and pride.”
Defender Teenage Hadebe echoed the captain’s sentiments, calling for fearlessness and unity as Zimbabwe return to AFCON after missing the last edition due to a FIFA ban.
“I am honoured to represent Zimbabwe on Africa’s biggest stage,” said Hadebe. “We are not intimidated. We will play with heart, passion and dignity.”
Hadebe also highlighted the importance of leadership in camp, pointing to Nakamba and senior figures like Knowledge Musona, Divine Lunga and Elvis Chipezeze Arubi as key influences.
“With experience and youth combined, this team has balance and belief to achieve its targets,” he said.