Date: March 20, 2025
Kick-off: 6 PM CAT
Final Score (As of 65’): Zimbabwe 2-2 Benin
Match Overview
Zimbabwe and Benin played a thrilling encounter in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Group C match, with Zimbabwe mounting a comeback after trailing by two goals in the first half. The match, being held in South Africa , saw both teams showcase attacking intent, with Benin taking an early lead before Zimbabwe fought back in the second half.
First Half Summary
Benin opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Zimbabwean goalkeeper Washington Arubi made a costly error, allowing Steve Mounie to capitalize and slot the ball into the net. The visitors doubled their lead in the 35th minute, with Dodo finishing off an impressive team move to put Benin firmly in control.
Despite being two goals down, Zimbabwe responded before halftime. In the 44th minute, Marshall Munetsi connected with a precise cross from Jordan Zemura to pull one back, injecting hope into the Warriors’ campaign. The first half ended with Benin leading 2-1, and Zimbabwe’s Divine Lunga receiving a yellow card in first-half stoppage time for an elbowing offense.
Second Half Summary
Zimbabwe made a tactical substitution at the start of the second half, bringing in Tawanda Chirewa for Prince Dube to add attacking firepower. The Warriors started brightly, dominating possession but struggling to break down Benin’s defense.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Knowledge Musona, making a return to the national team, scored the equalizer after receiving an assist from Zemura. The goal shifted the momentum in Zimbabwe’s favor, with the team pressing forward for a potential winner.
In the 65th minute, Zemura played a dangerous through pass to Musona, but the forward failed to reach it, allowing the Benin goalkeeper to clear the danger.
Match Status (65’): Zimbabwe 2-2 Benin
With 25 minutes remaining, both teams were pushing for a decisive goal, making for an exciting finish to this crucial Group C qualifier.
Team Lineups
Zimbabwe Starting XI:
Washington Arubi (GK), Andrew Jalai, Frank Garan’anga, Gerald Takwara, Divine Lunga, Jordan Zemura, Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Prince Dube, Knowledge Musona, Khama Billiat.
Benin Starting XI:
Marcel Dandjinou (GK), Kiki, Mohamed Tijani, Olivier Roche, Rachid Moumini, Imourane, Sessi D’almeida, Samson Olaitan, Dodo, Jodel Dossou Hountondji, Steve Mounie.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe has shown resilience after falling behind early, with Musona and Munetsi leading the comeback. As the match progresses, the Warriors will be looking to capitalize on their momentum and secure a vital win in their World Cup qualifying campaign.