Jalai, Rinomhota optimistic

Emmanuel Jalai

WARRIORS’ midfielder, Andy Rinomhota, is confident the Warriors will register an away win against Nigeria today.

The Michael Nees mentored Warriors will battle against the Super Eagles in a 2026 Fifa World Cup Qualifier Group C encounter at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, this evening.

The match will kick off at 6pm.

In the first leg encounter that was played in 2023, the two sides drew one all.

“We’re optimistic. We got a result against Nigeria last time, even though it was technically a home game in Rwanda.

That was my first game – it was a big test, and the team did well to draw. This time, we want to go a step further. We respect Nigeria, but not too much. We’ll try to impose ourselves. We’ve come here to get a result and keep pushing towards our goal. We drew the first game against them and this time we want a win,” said Rhinomota.

Also optimistic is pint-sized Dynamos defender Emmanuel Jalai, who had a good game when the Warriors drew 2-2 against Benin last Thursday.

“It’s not about size, but game intelligence and how you can impose your attributes on the match,” said Jalai.

In the thrilling 2-2 draw against Benin, the 25-year-old rock solid and hard running defender demonstrated exactly why he is regarded as one of the best rightbacks in the country.

The moment was nothing short of historic for the player, whose rise to prominence has been marked by consistency and dedication.

Despite the challenges of competing for a place in a national team brimming with overseas talent, Jalai’s debut was a statement.

Meanwhile, Eritrea officials will handle the match today. .

Tsegay Teklu Mogos will be centre referee and will be assisted by Eyobel Michael and Mengis Sirak Samuel, respectively.

Zimbabwe Warriors Squad
Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).
Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Divine Lunga (Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC),Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scottland), Godknows Murwira (Scottland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos).
Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi (Wolverhampton), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Marvelous Nakamba(Luton Town), Mthokozisi Msebe (Scottland), Khama Billiat (Scottland), Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood), Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town).
Forwards: Prince Dube (Young Africans), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tymon Machope (Scottland), Walter Musona (Scottland). — @FungaiMuderere.