WARRIORS RISE BUT STILL OUT OF TOP 100

Eddie Chikamhi

ZIMBABWE still have a long way to go in improving their FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking despite moving seven places up the ladder in the latest rankings.

The Warriors made positive strides after landing on 117th place in the world and 31st in Africa, according to the FIFA rankings released yesterday.

This is Zimbabwe’s best position in the last four years, which have been characterised by turbulence on and off the pitch.

But their recent campaign in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers, in which they are unbeaten in four games, has given Warriors renewed hope.

ZIFA Technical Director Jethro Hunidzarira yesterday told Zimpapers Sports that it will take a lot of effort and resources to get Zimbabwe back in the top 100.

“We are still a long way to go but this means a lot,” he said. “We have to reclaim our place and we can only do this by performing consistently.

“Winning games and getting points in international competitions will obviously elevate our ranking.”

The Warriors were rewarded this month after beating Namibia 1-0 and 3-1 in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. The wins earned them a cumulative 27.49 percentage points.

The success also consolidated their place in Group J as they aim to qualify for the continental football jamboree to be held in Morocco next year.

Group leaders Cameroon have already qualified.

On number 117, Zimbabwe are still the worst ranked side in the group.

It is disappointing they are still behind countries like Palestine (100), Comoros (108), Sudan (110), Namibia (113) and even war-ravaged Lebanon.

“There are so many advantages that come with high rankings. Apart from boosting the players’ morale it also helps them get better ratings on the international scene.

“So, we need to make sure we continue working our way upwards.

“We need to make sure that we have enough time for preparations and enough resources to motivate our boys so that they will be able to deliver.”