Warriors captain Nakamba returns

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

Zimbabwe's national football team, the Warriors, are gearing up for a crucial double-header against Namibia in the Africa Cup of qualifiers. The team will be bolstered by the return of their captain, Marvelous Nakamba, who has been sidelined due to injury for several months.

Nakamba, the 30-year-old defensive midfielder, last featured for Zimbabwe in the World Cup qualifiers in November 2022. His return will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the Warriors' midfield. Despite his recent struggles with Luton Town in the English Championship, Nakamba remains a key figure for the national team.

Another notable inclusion in the 24-member squad is striker Tino Kadewere. Kadewere, who plays for Ligue 1 club Lyon, missed the previous Afcon qualifiers due to a hamstring injury. His return will be a welcome addition to the team's attacking options.

Other notable players in the squad include Terrence Dzvukamanja, Prince Dube, Tawanda Maswanhise, Daniel Musendami, Walter Musona, Khama Billiat, and Mamelodi Sundowns fullback Divine Lunga.

The Warriors will face Namibia on October 9 and 14 at Orlando Stadium in South Africa. Zimbabwe currently sits in third place in Group J, behind Kenya and Cameroon. A win in both matches against Namibia will put them in a strong position to qualify for the 2025 Afcon tournament in Morocco.

As the Warriors prepare for their crucial matches, there is a sense of optimism and excitement among fans. The return of Nakamba and Kadewere, coupled with the inclusion of other talented players, gives the team a fighting chance to secure their place in the upcoming Afcon.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (Dynamos)

Defenders: Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Brendan Galloway (Plymouth Argyle), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Godknows Murwira (Caps United), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Jordan Zemura (Udinese)

Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Marshall Munetsi (Stade de Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Tawanda Chirewa (Derby County), Brian Banda (FC Platinum), Richard Hachiro (Ngezi Platinum)

Forwards: Tinotenda Kadewere (FC Nantes), Khama Billiat (Yadah FC), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants), Walter Musona (Simba Bhora)