Rushesha Left on Bench as Warriors’ Right-Side Woes Continue: From Cameroon to Rwanda-Zim Keep Conceding on the Right
Johannesburg — The selection of Emmanuel Jalai at right-back ahead of Tivonge Rushesha has drawn frustration from Zimbabwean supporters, with many questioning why the Swansea City product remains overlooked despite recurring costly defensive lapses on that side of the pitch.
Over the past two years, Zimbabwe have conceded crucial free-kicks and goals due to clear weakness from their right flank — costly mistakes against Cameroon, Nigeria, Benin, Rwanda and South Africa. The trend has fuelled a growing debate: is Rushesha the solution to the Warriors’ persistent defensive problems?
Fans Question Nees’ Selection
Supporters expressed dismay after observing Rushesha warm up throughout the match against Rwanda without being introduced, even as Jalai endured a difficult outing.
“I was sitting behind the Warriors bench. He warmed up from the first half until full-time. I felt sorry for him,” one fan said.
Another supporter fumed:
“My worry is seeing Jalai playing on the right and Rushesha sitting on the bench — coach, something is not right.”
A Case for Rushesha
Rushesha, who came through the Swansea City academy in Wales, is known for his technical quality, pace, and ability to balance defensive duties with forward runs. Fans argue that his inclusion could offer the Warriors a more solid option at right-back, especially given the repeated calamities from that channel.
“If we keep conceding from the right side, why not try Tivonge? We need a proper full-back who can defend one-on-one and cut out crosses,” one post read.
Bigger Questions Over Squad Management
The debate over Rushesha also highlights wider concerns around team selection under coach Michael Nees. With veteran players like Knowledge Musona deployed in unorthodox roles and promising youngsters left unused, many believe Zimbabwe is failing to strike the right balance between experience and fresh talent.
Some supporters went as far as suggesting that leaving Rushesha out is symptomatic of deeper issues:
“All these coaches can’t be calling him for nothing. His chance must come — our defence keeps leaking from the same side,” argued another fan.
The Verdict
While Jalai continues to receive the nod, the evidence of recurring defensive lapses on the right flank has intensified calls for change. Rushesha’s advocates see him as the long-term solution at right-back, with the potential to stabilise a fragile defensive line.
For now, the Warriors’ right side remains their Achilles’ heel — and until Rushesha is given a proper chance, questions will continue to hang over Zimbabwe’s defensive setup.