Full Squad Boost as Cheetahs Target First Win Against Zimbabwe Warriors
The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers return this Friday with a crucial Group C clash at Stade d’Ebimpé in Abidjan, where the Benin Cheetahs and the Zimbabwe Warriors will battle for three vital points.
Both teams come into the match on the back of a 2-2 draw in South Africa in June — a result that left them chasing their first wins of the campaign to keep qualification hopes alive.
Benin: Full Squad Assembled, Confidence Rising
The Cheetahs have completed their camp in Abidjan with all players now present at Sofitel Ivory Hotel. Training began on September 1 at Lycée Classique de Cocody, and by midweek the full roster had reported, including key figures like Saturnin Allagbé, Olivier Verdon, Jodel Dossou, Junior Olaitan and Rodrigue Kossi.
Midfielder Imrane Hassane has shaken off fitness concerns and trained fully, much to the relief of coach Gernot Rohr, who now has his preferred options available. The atmosphere in camp has been described as lively but focused, with Rohr emphasising tactical organisation and sharpness.
Benin will also look to make home advantage count, with back-to-back fixtures in Abidjan — first against Zimbabwe on September 4 and then against Lesotho on September 9.
Zimbabwe: Nees Banking on Experience and Youth
For the Warriors, the build-up has been about balancing experience with youthful energy. Coach Michael Nees has recalled Marvelous Nakamba to steady the midfield in the absence of vice-captain Marshall Munetsi (suspended) and Andy Rinomhota (unavailable).
Nees is expected to lean on Nakamba’s discipline and leadership to protect the backline and allow the likes of Prosper Padera, Tawanda Maswanhise, Tawanda Chirewa, and Thando Ngwenya to shine in attack.
Zimbabwe’s young forwards have been in good form at club level, and there is growing belief that this new generation can deliver a much-needed breakthrough on the road.
What’s at Stake
Benin: Seeking to reassert themselves after missing AFCON 2023, the Cheetahs know that a win at home is non-negotiable to stay in contention.
Zimbabwe: Rebuilding after FIFA’s suspension and with a refreshed squad, the Warriors see this game as a springboard to prove they belong back on the continental stage.
Both sides shared points after their last outings and will be desperate to avoid another draw. With little margin for error in Group C, Friday’s clash at Ebimpé promises intensity, pace, and drama.
Match Info
Fixture: Benin 🇧🇯 vs Zimbabwe 🇿🇼
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF)
Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
Venue: Stade d’Ebimpé, Abidjan
- Time: 6PM CAT