Online Reporter
Funga Muderere [email protected]
MIGHTY Warriors head coach Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda’s long-standing spell at the helm of Zimbabwe’s senior women’s national football team appears to be approaching a turning point, with her contract set to expire in September amid emerging discussions about a possible change in leadership.
Kwinji has been one of the most consistent figures in Zimbabwe women’s football in recent years, having served the Mighty Warriors for an extended period through different phases of transition, rebuilding, and competitive campaigns. Her tenure has been marked by stability, player development, and efforts to keep the team competitive on the continental stage despite various challenges.
However, fresh indications suggest that the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) could be considering a new direction once her deal lapses.
Talk circulating within football circles points to the possibility of a German coach being targeted for the national team job, although the matter remains at a discussion stage with no formal agreement reached yet.
Sources familiar with the developments say internal deliberations have taken place within Zifa regarding the idea of appointing a foreign tactician, particularly from Germany, as part of a broader strategy to re-shape the technical direction of the women’s game.
At this stage, however, the situation remains fluid, with no official confirmation and no contract reportedly signed.
Kwinji’s extended service has made her one of the most familiar faces in the women’s game locally, having guided the
Mighty Warriors through various qualification campaigns and squad rebuilds while working closely with emerging talent.
As her contract edges towards expiry, attention is now shifting to what could be a significant decision for Zimbabwe women’s football — whether to continue with continuity under a long-serving coach, or to usher in a new era under potential foreign leadership.
For now, Zifa is expected to weigh its options carefully as the September deadline approaches, with the future of the Mighty Warriors’ technical bench hanging in the balance.
Spirited efforts to get a comment from the country’s football mother body and Sibanda drew a blank. –
@FungaiMuderere
