Mugove Chigada
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA confirmed last night they had addressed players’ welfare issues and also explained why the return from Yaounde was delayed after the match against Equatorial Guinea.
This comes ahead of the Warriors 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group E qualifier reverse fixture against Equatorial Guinea at the National Sports Stadium tomorrow.
Zimpapers Sports Hub understands the ZIFA executive had a meeting with the players to hear their grievances and address the issues.
An insider from the players’ camp also confirmed key issues had been addressed.
Contacted for comment, ZIFA said: “The delay arose from the late arrival of the charter aircraft assigned to transport the team. The aircraft first had to take the Zimbabwe Under-23 national team to Bamako, Mali, before returning to Yaounde to collect the Warriors squad for their journey home.
“The timing of these successive journeys affected the Warriors’ scheduled departure and, consequently, their arrival in Harare.
“While the disruption was regrettable, the extended stay in Yaounde provided the players with additional time to rest and recover before departure.
“This afforded the squad a longer recovery period following their match against Equatorial Guinea before undertaking the journey home.
“ZIFA acknowledges the concern caused by the delay and appreciates the patience and understanding of the players, technical team, their families and supporters.
“The welfare of our national teams remains a priority as we coordinate travel and preparations across their respective international assignments.
“We thank the nation for its continued support of both the Warriors and the Young Warriors, and call on supporters to maintain that backing as the teams focus on the challenges ahead in their respective qualifying campaigns.”
