Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S opening two matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have offered a glimpse of what could be an encouraging new chapter under Spanish coach Ramon Catala, although Monday night’s defeat to DR Congo exposed areas that still require attention.
The Warriors have collected three points from a possible six and have scored four goals in two matches, a marked improvement on their start to the previous AFCON qualifying campaign under Michael Nees, when they managed just two points without scoring in their opening two games.
However, while the numbers suggest progress, the bigger question is whether Catala is building a team capable of combining attacking ambition with the consistency required to compete against Africa’s established sides.
A 3-2 comeback victory over Sierra Leone in Morocco last Thursday demonstrated Zimbabwe’s fighting spirit and attacking potential, with Wolves star Marshall Munetsi emerging as the central figure after scoring twice.
But the 1-2 defeat to DR Congo at the National Sports Stadium on Monday night presented a different challenge, exposing the fine margins that separate competitive performances from positive results.
Against the Leopards, Zimbabwe were almost at par statistically, despite facing opponents ranked 89 places above them on the current FIFA World Rankings.
DR Congo enjoyed 51 percent possession, but both teams registered 13 shots, with the Warriors actually managing six shots on target compared to their opponents’ four.
Zimbabwe also won six corners against DR Congo’s one, suggesting that the home side were capable of putting their more fancied opponents under pressure.
Yet, football is ultimately decided by what teams do in the decisive moments, and the Leopards proved more clinical, with Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa and Samuel Moutoussamy scoring in the first half.
That is perhaps the biggest lesson Catala must take from the encounter.
The Warriors are showing an ability to create opportunities, but their attacking improvements must now translate into better conversion rates, particularly against opponents who are likely to punish defensive lapses.
There are, nevertheless, encouraging individual performances to build on.
Munetsi has suddenly rediscovered his scoring touch, finding the net three times in two matches, while captain Marvelous Nakamba delivered what was arguably one of his finest performances in Zimbabwean colours against DR Congo. The midfielder recorded a remarkable 96 percent passing accuracy from 77 touches, underlining his importance in linking the team’s different departments.
His performance also demonstrated why experienced players remain crucial during periods of transition, particularly when a new coach is still trying to establish his football philosophy.
“It was sweet playing in front of our own fans, after years in exile,” Warriors captain Marvelous Nakamba said.
“It was a homecoming show indeed; what an atmosphere it was.
“The boys were also motivated by the presence of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“He keeps supporting us, and we want to thank him for that gesture.
“Fans have always been behind us, and they deserve better from us. We will keep pushing,” added the midfielder, who is now turning out for Greek Super League side Penetolikos.
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Catala’s opening two matches has been his willingness to experiment.
The starting teams against Sierra Leone and DR Congo were different, while several substitutions in both matches suggest that the Spaniard is still assessing his options and searching for the right balance. Natural wing-backs Emmanuel Jalai and Divine Lunga did not start either encounter, yet their introduction against DR Congo appeared to inject fresh attacking impetus into the Warriors.
Bill Antonio also moved from the bench against Sierra Leone to the starting line-up against DR Congo, while Sean Fusire experienced the opposite after starting in Morocco.
Such adjustments are understandable at this stage of a new coaching relationship, but Catala will eventually need to identify a settled combination.
Zimbabwe cannot afford to remain a team of promising individual performances without developing the cohesion needed to consistently deliver results.
Former Warriors striker Edward “Duduza” Sadomba believes patience will be important as Catala continues to familiarise himself with the players.
“Credit to the new coach; it’s not easy for him because he is still getting used to the players.
“We just need to have some patience because this is a new journey under a new coach,” Sadomba said.
His sentiments reflect the reality facing the Spaniard, who inherited a team that has endured several coaching changes since its last appearance at the National Sports Stadium in November 2021.
The return to the giant facility on Monday was significant in itself, with the Warriors finally playing before their home supporters after years of exile. But beyond the emotional significance of returning home, the Warriors must now translate that support into performances that produce tangible results.
The comparison with Nees’ opening two AFCON qualifiers provides some encouragement, but it should not be mistaken for proof that Zimbabwe have already turned a corner.
Catala has improved the team’s early attacking returns, but defensive organisation, tactical consistency and efficiency in front of goal remain important areas for improvement.
That the Warriors have conceded four times in two matches should be a cause for concern.
The next phase of Catala’s tenure will therefore be less about experimenting and more about building a recognisable identity.
Zimbabwe will play Equatorial Guinea in back-to-back fixtures in November.
“With this kind of support for the Warriors from Government and ZIFA, the national team can only get better.
“It’s clear the new coach has been trying combinations, and I am sure in our third qualifier we will see a strong side,” said a former Warriors midfielder.
“You can see Catala is still trying to come up with a team that is efficient and coherent,” added the former midfielder.
