Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
THE Government of Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to national football by extending significant financial support to the Warriors ahead of their crucial Fifa World Cup qualifiers.
The Warriors played Benin yesterday evening. In recognition of the team’s efforts and as a gesture of encouragement, His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, offered a winning bonus of US$150 000 to the players, technical team and support staff, for each victory in their matches against Benin and Nigeria.
“In recognition of the team’s efforts and as a gesture of encouragement, His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has offered a winning bonus of US$150 000 to the players, technical team and support staff, for each victory in their upcoming matches against Benin on March 20 and Nigeria on March 25.
“This means that, over and above the US$ 1 million set aside by the Government for the Caf Africa Cup of Nations Finals, the Warriors stand to earn an extra US$300 000, should they secure wins in both fixtures. This support underscores the Government’s unwavering commitment to the growth and success of football in Zimbabwe and the aspirations of the Warriors as they strive for World Cup qualification.
The nation is urged to rally behind the team, as they carry our hopes and pride onto the field. Zimbabwe stands united behind the Warriors – Go Warriors, Go Zimbabwe,” said Zifa in a statement released on Thursday.
The Warriors’ World Cup Qualifiers campaign started in 2023 with former Highlanders head coach Baltermar Brito, who recorded two draws against Rwanda (0-0) and Nigeria (1-1) as an interim head coach.
This was followed up by two defeats against Lesotho and South Africa last year when the team was in the hands of Manica Diamonds coach, Jairos Tapera.
Thursday’s match was the first World Cup Qualifier match for Michael Nees who was appointed last year in July before guiding the Warriors to qualify for the 2025 Morocco Afcon.
