Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza-Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba has declared today’s clash against Lesotho a must-win, a final chance to salvage pride after a win-less 2026 World Cup qualifiers campaign.
The Warriors face Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium in the last group C match.
With five points from five draws, the result will not, however, change Zimbabwe’s position in the group. They will finish bottom.
But they must do away with the unwanted record of finishing the campaign without a single win. And for that reason, they have declared war on Lesotho.
“This is a must-win game for us,” Nakamba said.
“We have all to play for. Records and pride are now at stake. We are looking not to make a record of going a whole campaign and failing to secure a single match.” Against South Africa, Nakamba provided cover for the defence and had the luxury of having the hardworking Marshal Munetsi breaking up some attacks coming from deep.
He says that match is now in the past, and they must now look into the new challenge.
“Lesotho have their own aspirations and we can’t overlook their abilities. They have been playing some decent football and picked up crucial points across the campaign.
“But going into this one, it is us who have the power of changing a narrative in our favour. We want to go to AFCON in our best shape, and tomorrow can be key for the confidence and our rankings too.
“So we have prepared well, and I believe the boys can pull a positive result in our favour.”
For Nakamba, these international matches mean much more to him in terms of reshaping his career.
Although he has stayed with Luton in the English third tier, League One, he has been battling for fitness, something that could have forced him to stay put.
During the transfer window, he was linked with moves to some Championship sides, but nothing materialised.
However, a fit again Nakamba could be crucial for Luton in their bid to try and climb up the ladder after two consecutive relegations.
And more importantly for Nakamba, full fitness could open new doors for him during the January transfer window.
If coach Michael Nees decides to throw back his skipper into the starting XI, Lesotho will not just be facing an ordinary Nakamba, but one eager to prove critics wrong and regain his status.
The midfielder believes the Warriors are eager to pick-up from where they left off against South Africa and improve confidence ahead of the AFCON finals.
“We have a bigger picture with us. That’s going to Morocco as a perfect side as best as we can and you could tell by the spirit and effort from the boys against South Africa.
“Thus the game against Lesotho is not just a game for us, but a battle for redemption, a final opportunity to reclaim a measure of dignity and end a disappointing qualifying journey on a defiant high note.”
