This Friday, Zimbabwe’s Warriors will aim to secure their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in a critical qualifying match against Kenya, set to be held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. Due to Zimbabwe’s facilities being deemed inadequate by the Confederation of African Football, they are unable to host AFCON qualifiers on home soil.
Match Preview
After missing out on the 2023 AFCON, Zimbabwe has made an impressive return to the qualifying stage. Under new coach Michael Nees, who took the reins in July, the team is yet to lose, boasting two wins and two draws across four matches. Nees has strengthened the team’s defense, which has conceded just one goal so far.
Despite a strong record, Zimbabwe’s preparations have faced setbacks, with heavy rains this week waterlogging their Polokwane training ground and limiting practice. Nonetheless, with several players familiar with the local conditions, the Warriors are confident they can secure the point they need to qualify for AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
On the other side, Kenya’s Harambee Stars also returned to the AFCON qualifiers after missing the previous edition. They started their campaign with a win, but last month, consecutive losses to Cameroon have put them in a difficult position. Kenya must avoid defeat to keep their qualification hopes alive; a draw would be enough for the warriors to qualify. Zimbabwe is 4 points above Kenya in the log standings.
Head coach Engin Firat faces a tough challenge, particularly as Kenya has struggled on the road recently. However, the team has yet to lose to Zimbabwe in their five previous encounters, which may boost their confidence going into Friday’s clash.
Team Updates
Zimbabwe’s squad is almost complete, of those called to camp, only Tino Kadewere is absent as of Tuesday. Defender Munashe Garananga is a slight fitness concern after missing Copenhagen’s recent match due to injury.
Kenya’s roster has seen several changes. Patrick Matasi is out, with Farouk Shikalo stepping in as goalkeeper, while Bristol City’s Zak Vyner and Gor Mahia’s Geoffrey Ochieng are among those omitted. Amos Wanjala, however, has earned a call-up.
Recent Form
- Zimbabwe AFCON Qualifying: DDWW
- Zimbabwe All Competitions: WLDDWW
- Kenya AFCON Qualifying: DWLL
- Kenya All Competitions: LWDWLL
The stage is set for a thrilling match as Zimbabwe and Kenya clash, with AFCON 2025 hopes on the line.
Go warriors