Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe senior men’s national football team, the Warriors, return to the international stage tonight as they face Burkina Faso in a friendly match in Morocco — a key test as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.
This is the first of two matches scheduled during the Fifa international window, with a second fixture against Niger set for June 10.
For head coach Michael Nees, these friendlies are more than just warm-up games — they present a vital opportunity to assess a refreshed squad featuring emerging talents and fringe players eager to make their mark.
One such rising star is 19-year-old forward Sean Fusire, who plays for English club Sheffield Wednesday. Fusire, who joined the club’s youth system at the age of nine and made his senior debut in the Papa Johns Trophy in 2022, is among the most exciting additions to the Warriors camp.
In an interview ahead of the Burkina Faso clash, Fusire shared his excitement about representing Zimbabwe.
“So far, I would say I am in a great place; my spirit is quite high, and I am enjoying myself. It’s different out here, but it’s a good group of players that I have linked up with here, and the training has been good as well.
“I just have to leave my impression on the manager. I hope to establish myself so that he knows and trusts me if the time comes for him to call me for the upcoming tournaments.”
Describing his playing style, Fusire said he is “quite explosive,” capable of driving the ball forward and initiating attacks, while also contributing defensively.
“So far I can’t complain; we have been welcomed nicely, and everything we need has been delivered,” he said.
Ahead of the friendlies, coach Nees made a few late changes to his squad. SuperSport United striker Terence Dzvukamanja replaces the injured forward Prince Dube, while Highlanders midfielder Mason Mushore comes in for Richard Hachiro of Ngezi Platinum, who also misses out due to injury.
Warriors Squad
for Morocco Friendlies
Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)
Defenders: Teenage Hadebe (Cincinnati), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)
Midfielders: Mthokozisi Msebe (Scotland), Khama Billiat (Scotland), Mason Mushore (Highlanders), Jonah Fabisch (FC Aue), Donald Mudadi (Simba Bhora), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants), Bill Antonio (K.V. Mechelen)
Forwards: Terrence Dzvukamanja (SuperSport United), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Walter Musona (Scotland), Tawanda Macheke (TelOne FC), Tino Kadewere (Nantes)
