Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S opening two matches in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers have offered a glimpse of what could be an encouraging new chapter under Spanish coach Ramon Catala.
However, Monday night’s defeat to DRC exposed areas that still require attention, including the defence.
The Warriors have three points from a possible six.
They 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 DRC 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.
DRC enjoyed 51 percent possession, but both teams registered 13 shots, with the Warriors actually managing six shots on target compared to their opponents’ four.
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.
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.
Captain Marvelous Nakamba delivered what was arguably his finest performance in Zimbabwean colours against DRC.
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,” 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.”
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Catala’s opening two matches has been his willingness to experiment.
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.
