As anticipation builds for Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Benin, ZimbabweWarriorsZone followers social media platforms have been sharing their thoughts on what coach Michael Nees is most likely to go with.
While many admit this may not be the exact XI they personally want, the general feeling is that the coach will set up something close to the following lineup — though changes remain very possible:
Probable XI (fan-predicted):
GK: Washington Arubi
Defence: Emmanuel Jalai, Teenage Hadebe, Munashe Garananga, Divine Lunga
Midfield: Marvelous Nakamba (Captain), Gerald Takwara
Attack: Jordan Zemura, Knowledge Musona (former captain), Walter Musona, Tawanda Maswanhise
Bench Options: Martin Mapisa, Elvis Chipezese, Prosper Padera, Tivonge Rushesha, Godknows Murwira, Bill Antonio, Terrence Dzvukamanja, Tymon Machope, Tino Kadewere, Tawanda Chirewa, Brendan Galloway.
Bench Options & Tactical Adjustments:
Midfield: Tivonge Rushesha or Prosper Padera could step in alongside Nakamba if more energy is needed in the pivot.
Wings: Bill Antonio offers a natural right-wing option if Nees wants width and pace.
Defence: Brendan Galloway provides flexibility, able to start or slot in on the left side.
Attack: Tino Kadewere can lead the line if the game turns into a more physical battle, with Maswanhise dropping deeper or moving wide.
Fans believe Nakamba, who now wears the armband, will anchor midfield alongside Takwara, while Maswanhise is tipped to lead the line, supported by Zemura and the Musona brothers. Knowledge Musona, the former captain, is expected to play in a creative role.
This is only a suggested lineup from the ZimbabweWarriorsZone community, and final selections will be revealed by coach Nees on matchday.
Let’s break it down tactically
Suggested Midfield + Attack (from the fan-predicted lineup):
CDM Pivot: Marvelous Nakamba (Captain) + Gerald Takwara
Wide Players: Jordan Zemura (RW), Walter Musona (LW)
Attacking Midfield: Knowledge Musona (former captain, AM)
Striker: Tawanda Maswanhise (CF)
What makes sense
Double Pivot (Nakamba + Takwara): strong defensively, ensures midfield stability, protects the back four.
Maswanhise as CF: he’s in form and has the pace to trouble defenders.
Knowledge Musona in AM role: allows him to drop deep, create, and use his experience — less running than on the wing.
Walter Musona wide left: natural fit, offers width and pace.
Potential Issues
Zemura as RW: He’s primarily a left-back/left wing-back. Pushing him to right wing is unconventional — he’s strong going forward, but he’d be cutting inside on his weaker foot. Might limit natural width.
Creativity overload on Knowledge Musona: If he has an off game, Zimbabwe could struggle to link midfield and attack. Chirewa (on the bench) might be better as a creative AM option.
Attacking balance: Both wide players (Zemura + Walter Musona) like to run direct, which could crowd Maswanhise instead of stretching play.
Overall verdict
It’s a sensible, safe formation because it gives defensive cover with Nakamba + Takwara, while still keeping experienced attackers. But it’s not the most natural fit for Zemura on the right. If Nees wants balance, he could start Bill Antonio or Chirewa wide/right and use Zemura at LB (moving Lunga to the midfield or bench).