Zim to play World Cup qualifiers in SA, home away ...

Zim to play World Cup qualifiers in SA, home away from home

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe senior men’s national football team – the Warriors - is set to play its World Cup home qualifying game against Lesotho in South Africa, despite Sports Minister’s assurances that the National Sports Stadium will be ready for use by the time of the June qualifiers.

The Warriors host Lesotho on June 7 at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, before playing hosts South Africa on June 11 at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Posting on X, the Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed the home fixture together with the away game, both of which will be played in South Africa.

“Via Orlando! The Warriors continue their quest for glory in the Fifa World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Matchday 3, Zimbabwe vs Lesotho, Friday June 7, Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg, 1800hrs CAT.

“Matchday 4: South Africa vs Zimbabwe, Tuesday June 11, Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, 2100hrs CAT,” Zifa posted.

The Warriors are without a substantive coach following the end of Baltemar Brito’s tenure, while Premier Soccer League side FC Platinum coach, Norman Mapeza took charge of the side on a caretaker basis.

Zifa has since flighted an advertisement for the position of national team head coach.

Zimbabwe sit third in the qualifying group with two points following their two deadlocks with Rwanda and Nigeria played in the latter nation.