Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
FOUR different captains have led Zimbabwe at the AFCON since the country’s debut in 2004.
Yet, none has taken the Warriors beyond the group stages of the continental showpiece.
Across five appearances at the AFCON finals, Zimbabwe have finished bottom of their group every time, a stubborn record that has followed generations of players and leaders.
Peter Ndlovu was the trailblazer, becoming the first captain to lead the Warriors at the finals in Tunisia in 2004.
Two years later in Egypt, Ndlovu again wore the armband in the opening match before handing over to Benjani Mwaruwari for the remaining fixtures.
The outcome was familiar.
Zimbabwe bowed out at the group stage once more, finishing bottom in a brutal pool that included Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal.
Willard Katsande carried the responsibility at the 2017 finals in Gabon, where the Warriors again ended bottom of a group featuring Senegal, Tunisia and Algeria.
Knowledge Musona then captained Zimbabwe at the 2019 and 2021 editions, but the long wait for a knockout appearance continued.
Now the baton rests with Marvelous Nakamba, who will lead the Warriors at the 2025 AFCON finals that kick off in Morocco on Sunday.
At 31, the Luton Town midfielder steps into the role with a chance to do what no Zimbabwean captain has managed before, guiding the Warriors into the knockout stage.
Nakamba cut a composed figure when he addressed the media yesterday morning, just hours before the team departed for Morocco.
“So far so good, we are pushing each other in camp, the morale is high,” Nakamba said.
Zimbabwe face a demanding assignment in Group B, which includes record champions Egypt, 2021 semi finalists South Africa and a resurgent Angola. Their campaign opens with a high-profile clash against the Pharaohs on December 22.
“It’s a difficult group, of course, but football is about competition, each and every group is tough.
“We just have to focus on ourselves, to have a great plan and to push each other and fight for the country.”
Nakamba said the squad understands the scale of the challenge ahead and believes preparation and unity will be decisive.
He also welcomed the backing the team has received from key football stakeholders, including government support.
Last week, President Mnangagwa handed the Warriors US$400,000 at a send-off function.
“We are getting fantastic support from all corners, so it’s now up to the boys to fight for the flag,” said the Warriors skipper.
“I think we just have to believe in ourselves and give every thing,” added Nakamba.
