Warriors End 10-Match Drought With Stunning Comeback Win Over Qatar
Qatar 1–2 Zimbabwe: Match Report
Qatar struck early, taking a 9th-minute lead when Mohamed Gouda finished sharply into the top corner after being set up by Jassem Gaber. The hosts controlled the opening stages, forcing Elvis Chipezeze into two early saves.
But Zimbabwe responded impressively.
In the 24th minute, Munashe Garananga climbed above everyone at a corner and powered home a brilliant header from Godknows Murwira’s delivery to level the match at 1–1. The equaliser settled the Warriors, who began to find rhythm through the midfield trio of Nakamba, Fabisch and Lunga.
Qatar, who made a full wave of substitutions at halftime, pushed hard through Ahmed Fathy, Muntari and Jamshid, but Chipezeze stood firm—producing two vital stops in the 69th minute to keep Zimbabwe level.
The breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute.
Prosper Padera, introduced at the break, broke away on the right and threaded a precise pass to Bill Antonio. The winger took a touch and rifled a stunning shot into the top corner, completing Zimbabwe’s comeback with a finish of real quality.
Qatar pressed late, forcing multiple corners, but Zimbabwe’s defensive organisation held strong through the seven minutes of added time. Jalai went close to scoring on the break, while Garananga and Lunga made key interventions to close out the result.
After 97 minutes, the Warriors finally earned a victory that had eluded them for nearly a year.
Why This Win Matters for Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe end a 10-match winless streak that included defeats to both higher-ranked and lower-ranked teams.
• The victory comes amid tension in the Warriors camp and uncertainty around coach Marian Marinica’s future.
• Key players stepped up: Garananga dominated, Antonio changed the game, and Chipezeze delivered match-saving stops.
• Confidence finally returns ahead of the 2025 AFCON.
Zimbabwe Starting XI vs Qatar
Chipezeze; Jalai, Garananga, Hadebe, Fusire; Nakamba (C), Murwira, Lunga, Fabisch; Msendami, P. Dube.
Subs used: Padera, Antonio, Takwara, Navaya.