Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
Zimpapers Sports Hub
IT is do-or-die for Bafana Bafana and bragging rights for the Warriors.
And Warriors defender Teenage Hadebe says they are ready for that group C showdown in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium today.
Zimbabwe are bottom of the log standings with four points and winless, but will be looking forward to spoil the party for Bafana Bafana who beat them 3-1 in the reverse fixture.
“The Warriors are in full camp, united, focused, and ready for battle against Bafana Bafana. Morale is high, spirits are strong, and the team is determined to deliver a performance that restores pride and signals Zimbabwe’s football renaissance. This is more than a match,” said Hadebe.
He added: “It’s about showing Africa that Zimbabwe is on the rise.”
Veteran Knowledge Musona expressed his excitement on his return to South Africa.
The former Zimbabwe captain made his name at giants Kaizer Chiefs before leaving for Europe. He also had a brief stint back at Chiefs before returning to Europe again.
He is one of many players in the Warriors team to have played in SA or still playing in SA ahead of this showdown.
“I played here in South Africa. I played well and I’m looking forward to repeat that against South Africa. They are aware of my performances here and it will be good to try and maintain that standard,” said Musona.
Ahead of the clash today, coach Michael Nees faces a selection dilemma.
In the last two matches, he gave chances to previously uncapped players, with the team lacking balance, particularly in midfield.
Musona played a deep role against Rwanda along with Marshal Munetsi, players who naturally pose more threat when in the final third.
While Musona now lacks the spead, he has shown at Scottland he can still give more to the team if consistently upfront, supporting the main striker.
At Wolves, Munetsi has been effective in a box to box role, but effectively taking up his defensive duties. In attack, Nees will have to make a decision on Tawanda Maswanhise, Tawanda Chirewa and Khama Billiat. Playing all three means he will have to use a false nine.
But chances are Prince Dube may get a striker’s role, forcing the coach to bench one among the above three.
Billiat said they are ready to play the way that the coach wants.
“We just need to keep focusing, work together and we trust everyone who is here. We want to follow what the coach wants us to do so that we can be ready on the day,” said Billiat.
