Zimbabwe's FIFA reintegration gains momentum

Zifa President Nqobile Magwizi in the company of FIFA President Gianni Infantino

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwean football has taken a significant stride towards its return to the international stage, as FIFA President Gianni Infantino extended a warm welcome to Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) President Nqobile Magwizi during the CAF 14th Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo.

The meeting, held amidst the continental gathering, signaled FIFA's renewed commitment to supporting Zimbabwe's football development. Infantino officially recognized Magwizi and reaffirmed the world governing body's dedication to assisting the nation in regaining its global footballing prominence.

"This evening in Cairo at the CAF 14th Extraordinary General Assembly, I had a great meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino," Magwizi shared on his X account. "He expressed his delight at Zimbabwe’s football growth prospects and reaffirmed FIFA’s commitment to supporting us in restoring our footballing glory."

Magwizi's proactive approach to international engagement has been a hallmark of his tenure. Since assuming office, he has prioritized building crucial partnerships to revitalize Zimbabwean football. Notably, the recently secured two-year collaboration with the Moroccan Football Federation underscores this commitment.

This partnership aims to bolster various facets of Zimbabwean football, including coaching, refereeing, and administrative structures. Furthermore, it will focus on nurturing youth and women's football, as well as facilitating international friendly matches between national teams.