Online Reporter
Africa Moyo
Deputy National Editor
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa last night hailed the Warriors for a proud and spirited performance against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the National Sports Stadium.
He said the team had shown character and promise despite the result not going Zimbabwe’s way.
The President, who joined thousands of fans at the giant stadium for the 6pm kick-off, said the national team gave everything on the pitch and treated supporters to an exciting game of football against formidable opponents.
In a post on his X handle following the match, President Mnangagwa said the performance proved that Zimbabwean football is moving in the right direction.
“A proud and spirited performance by our national team tonight (last night) at the National Sports Stadium,” said the President.
“While the final score did not go our way against the Democratic Republic of Congo, our players gave everything on the pitch and treated us to a genuinely magnificent game of football.
“They showed exceptional character, skill, and resilience against formidable opponents, proving that our football is moving in the right direction.”
The Warriors, backed by a capacity crowd that had been building since yesterday morning – with some motorists seen flying the national flag in the capital – appeared to match the highly-rated Congolese for long periods and created several promising openings.
President Mnangagwa said defeats, while painful, must be used as building blocks for future success.
“Defeats are tough, but they are also the foundation of future victories. We stand firmly behind the team and the technical staff as they regroup for the rest of the AFCON qualification campaign,” he said.
The President thanked the thousands of patriotic fans who filled the National Sports Stadium and roared until the final whistle.
“Our journey continues!” said President Mnangagwa.
The Head of State has been a consistent supporter of the Warriors’ rebuilding project, with Government investing in the refurbishment of the National Sports Stadium to meet CAF standards and ensure the team plays its home qualifiers in the country.
