Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ALTHOUGH the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended three weeks ago, the tournament continues to inspire 18-year-old Zimbabwean footballer Kudakwashe Kanyongo, who is based in the United States.
For Kanyongo, football’s biggest stage served as a reminder of his ultimate ambition—to one day represent Zimbabwe, a nation that has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup.
As he prepares to leave the United States for Spain, where he has enrolled at Select Generation Academy in Salamanca, Kanyongo is determined to take his game to the next level and pursue his lifelong dream.
“I know Zimbabwe have never been to the World Cup, but I believe we will qualify one day,” Kanyongo told Zimpapers Sports Hub from his base in Ohio.
“With proper planning and God’s guidance, anything is possible. Watching the World Cup was a huge inspiration, especially because it was held so close to home.”
Kanyongo earned recognition after helping St. Albans High School win the 2024 State Championship in Ohio, following an impressive high school campaign.
The talented youngster also spent time developing his game at the Columbus Crew Academy, where he continued to sharpen his skills.
His move to Spain marks another important step in his football journey.
“I am very excited about playing in Spain. I will give it my best because I have many people supporting me, and I believe in my ability,” he said.
Despite his progress abroad, Kanyongo’s biggest ambition remains representing Zimbabwe on the international stage.
“I would love to play for Zimbabwe in the future, especially at the Africa Cup of Nations.
“Wearing the national team’s jersey would be a dream come true.”
His aspirations come at a time when the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is actively seeking to engage talented players of Zimbabwean heritage living abroad.
Through its “Roots & Dreams” initiative, ZIFA aims to identify, scout and integrate foreign-born and diaspora players into the country’s national teams.
Kanyongo believes Zimbabwe’s long-awaited World Cup breakthrough is achievable.
“I know Zimbabwe have never been to the World Cup, but I truly believe that day will come.
“With faith, hard work and the right planning, anything is possible.”
Kanyongo has played football in the United States since the age of five and hopes his move to Spain will bring him one step closer to achieving his dream of playing professional football and representing Zimbabwe on the international stage.
