Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Warriors plunge into battle against Benin in the 2026 Fifa World Cup Group C match at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abijan, Ivory Coast this evening.
Kickoff is at 6PM.
Benin, who also do not have Caf approved stadiums for international matches, have been forced to play their home matches in foreign land.
Zimbabwe sit at the bottom of Group C with four points.
South Africa lead after amassing 13 points, Rwanda and Benin are tied on eight, Nigeria have collected seven and Lesotho are on six.
Tivonge Rushesha, who replaced Sean Fusire last minute, says all has been well in camp.
“It has been really good with the gaffer and the team,” said Rushesha.
“All the staff has been very smooth. Even the new people that have come, everyone is a quality player. The quality is top, everyone deserves to earn a starting place. The coach has explained what he wants from each player. We just need to make sure that we win,” said Rushesha.
While victory this evening may not change Zimbabwe’s situation much, it will keep them with an outside chance of finishing second.
Tawanda Maswanhise said the team must give everything.
“We also had good sessions and we look forward to the Friday (this evening) game. We are targeting a win. I don’t know how we are going to do it, but we have to win. The main focus on Friday(today) is to pick up three points,” he said.
Brandon Galloway, who also plies his trade in Europe said:
“It is nice to be back in the team and we are hopeful we are going to win this one. I’m fully fit and ready to go after missing a couple of games. We have two big games in our hands, which can help us prepare for Afcon finals and we are fully focused. I love playing for my country, playing with the boys here. Big games for our chances for the World Cup. I don’t have anything for myself but a target for the team, which is to win.”
After their game against Benin, Michael Nees charges will head to South Africa where they will entertain Rwanda at Orlando Stadium this coming Tuesday.
Warriors squad for Benin and Rwanda
Washington Arubi, Elvis Chipezeze, Martin Mapisa, Godknows Murwira, Tivonge Rushesha, Walter Musona, Emmanuel Jalai, Terrence Dzvukamanja, Martin Mapisa, Knowledge Musona, Tymon Machope, Gerald Takwara, Tawanda Chirewa, Marvelous Nakamba, Thando Ngwenya, Divine Lunga, Bill Antonio, Tivonge Rushesha, Brendan Galloway,Tawanda Maswanhise, Munashe Garananga, Tino Kadewere, Prosper Padera, Teenage Hadebe-@FungaiMuderere
