Zimbabwe Outclassed in Midfield — Did Missing Stars Decide It?
Zimbabwe’s 1–0 loss to Benin in Abidjan wasn’t just about Steve Mounié’s strike — it was about a midfield stripped of its spine. With Marshall Munetsi and Andy Rinomhota missing, the Warriors had no balance between grit, height, and drive.
Munetsi, a Premier League powerhouse at Wolves, brings aerial dominance and late runs into the box. His absence left Zimbabwe blunt going forward and vulnerable on set pieces. Rinomhota, a tireless ball-winner, thrives on tackles and transitions. Without him, Zimbabwe lost second balls and midfield duels, leaving Marvelous Nakamba isolated in a holding role.
Nakamba was neat and tidy as always — 83% pass accuracy — but too safe. With no Munetsi surging forward and no Rinomhota snapping at heels, Zimbabwe’s midfield was predictable and overrun. Supported by centre-backs Munashe Garananga and Teenage Hadebe, the missing duo could have tilted the battle: Rinomhota breaking up play, Munetsi crashing the box, Nakamba anchoring. Instead, Zimbabwe played safe and paid the price.
This wasn’t just defeat — it was a lesson. Without their full midfield trio, the Warriors lacked power, legs, and invention. With them, a point — or even victory — was within reach.
Could They Have Changed the Result?
- Munetsi’s presence would have offered Zimbabwe an aerial outlet against a physically strong Benin defence, while his ability to press higher might have forced errors.
- Rinomhota’s work rate could have limited Benin’s midfield freedom, particularly in transitions where the Warriors were often exposed.
- Together with Nakamba, the trio could have formed a well-rounded midfield: Nakamba holding, Rinomhota disrupting, and Munetsi driving play forward.
Fit With Defence
Centre-backs Garananga (calm distributor) and Hadebe (aggressive tackler) needed a shield in front. Nakamba offered discipline, but without Rinomhota’s energy or Munetsi’s height, the back line absorbed constant pressure, especially in aerial duels and second balls.
Final Word
Zimbabwe did not just lose a match in Abidjan; they lost the midfield battle. The absence of Munetsi and Rinomhota stripped the Warriors of balance between defence and attack. With them available, Zimbabwe might have had the power, legs, and thrust to turn a narrow 1–0 defeat into at least a point.