Online Reporter
Mugove Chigada, Deputy Sports Editor
ZIMBABWEE’S wait to host the Warriors and Caf Champions League representatives Simba Bhora on home soil could drag on a little longer.
A statement from the Confederation of African Football (Caf) yesterday appeared to give the National Sports Stadium (NSS) clearance to host international matches from under-17 to under-23 level. It briefly sparked hope among fans, but the listing was an error.
While the oversight caused confusion, sources say Caf is encouraged by the progress being made on the stadium’s renovations. Government support has poured millions of US dollars into the project, in an effort to meet Caf’s strict requirements.
The Warriors and local clubs in continental competitions have been forced to play abroad due to the lack of Caf-certified venues. Zimbabwe will face Rwanda in a Fifa World Cup qualifier at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg in September, with the October clash against South Africa also likely to be staged outside Harare.
Simba Bhora, who take on Nsingizi Hotspurs of Eswatini in the Caf Champions League first preliminary round next month, will also play both legs away from home.
The good news is that a Caf delegation will visit Zimbabwe in September to assess the renovations being carried out by the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
A Caf insider confirmed the stadium’s premature inclusion on the clearance list would be corrected.
“As it stands, the National Sports Stadium is undergoing renovations and chances are it will only be cleared by end of year, but more certainly next year. That is what is practical at the moment and it is known. This was just an oversight,” the official said.
“So, there is no chance Simba Bhora will play in Harare in the preliminary stages and there is also no chance the Warriors will play Rwanda or South Africa in Harare, as things stand. You have to look at renovations underway to understand the situation. But obviously, the Confederation is pleased something is being done about the stadium situation.”
Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi, said they are grateful for Caf’s support and the Government’s investment.
“What is important is that there is a lot of goodwill from Caf. That is very important for us and we are grateful for the efforts being put by the ministry and contractors on the ground,” Magwizi told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
“We are keeping Caf updated on all the developments. The positive development is that we are expecting Caf delegation next month to assess the facility. Ideally, we would want the stadium homologated as soon as possible.”
Bucket seats have already been installed, with contractors now working on the pitch, drainage and other key areas highlighted by Caf.
Asked about progress, Magwizi added; “Remember, we are just beneficiaries and we continue to lobby for the renovations to be completed. We were happy that the Finance Ministry indicated they released funds to that effect.
So, as beneficiaries, we will also be waiting for the official update from the ministry.”
The lack of a certified stadium continues to cost Zifa in venue rentals and lost home match revenue. Simba Bhora face similar financial strain, paying for both legs of their ties to be played outside Zimbabwe.
To ease the burden, Caf will pay USD 100 000 to teams knocked out in the first two rounds of its competitions.
Dynamos, last season’s Chibuku Super Cup winners, opted out of the Caf Confederation Cup over costs. Runners-up Ngezi Platinum, turned down the chance to step in, saying the notice was too short.
That leaves Simba Bhora as Zimbabwe’s sole continental representatives this year. After their Chibuku Super Cup exit, coach Joel Luphaphla said the focus is now on the league and Champions League.
“The league and Champions League demand our full throttle. Facing a Southern African side levels the playing style. We will dissect them on video, exploit their off-season rust. In terms of fitness, we have been grinding for some months and we are ready. Remember, we are a team from Shamva and already living our dream,” said Luphaphla.
