Musona likely to miss crucial Mali tie

Kaizer Chiefs striker Knowledge Musona is likely to miss Zimbabwe's crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Mali at Rufaro Stadium this weekend because of a knee ligament strain.

'The Smiling Assassin' has a knee ligament strain.

Zimbabwe host Mali at Rufaro Stadium in their capital Harare on Sunday, but media reports from that country, which have been confirmed by Warriors coach Norman Mapeza, say the PSL 2010/11 top scorer sat out training for the second day on Wednesday and remains doubtful for the match, which Zimbabwe must win to have any hope of making the trip to Equatorial Guinea/Gabon next year.

"Musona did not train at the match venue on Wednesday because of the knee problem and we are not sure if he will be fit to play on Sunday," says Mapeza, adding that the developments are disturbing to his preparations.

"It is sad that he did not train, but we hope that he will be fit on Sunday. Should he fail to recover, we will have to adopt another plan."

The Zimbabwe national team's physiotherapist, Farai Muguwe, tells the country's media that Musona's injury – a ligament strain – is sensitive, leading to a need for a rest.

Another Zimbabwean hitman plying his trade in the PSL, Nyasha Mushekwi of Mamelodi Sundowns, who sat out training on Tuesday, is said to be back on the field but still struggling.

The two strikers are key in Mapeza's attacking options, with Ajax Cape Town's Khama Billiat expected to play behind them and provide the third attacking option, should the duo recover in time to start the game.

Winless Zimbabwe are third on the log in Group A with two points, five off surprise leaders Cape Verde and a point above Liberia, who anchor the group.