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Zimbabwe Warriors aim to finish AFCON qualifiers on a high
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With qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations already secured, Zimbabwe's Warriors, under coach Michael Nees, are not taking their final Group J match against Cameroon lightly. Despite the academic nature of tomorrow's clash at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé, Nees is determined to maintain his unbeaten streak in the qualifiers.
In his three months at the helm, Nees has guided the Warriors to AFCON, becoming the second foreign coach after Zdravko Logarusic to achieve this feat. His team is undefeated in five challenging matches against Kenya, Namibia, and Cameroon.
Last Friday, Zimbabwe sealed their ticket to Morocco with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kenya at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. Tomorrow's encounter presents an opportunity to finish the campaign strongly, with Zimbabwe just two points behind group leaders Cameroon.
Injury Setbacks and Squad Adjustments
The Warriors will be without France-based midfielder Marshal Munetsi, who has been granted compassionate leave, and defender Gerald Takwara, sidelined by a shoulder injury. With no replacements called up, Nees hinted at giving opportunities to less-utilized players like goalkeeper Marley Tavaziva and Emmanuel Jalai.
Despite these challenges, Nees remains optimistic. "We will play Cameroon with maximum concentration and focus. These games matter for rankings and for the team's morale," he said.
Khama Billiat's Influence
Nees highlighted the importance of Khama Billiat, who came out of international retirement at the coach's request. Billiat's creativity has been crucial, filling a void behind the striker. "Convincing Billiat to return wasn't easy. Professional players need assurance of professionalism, and I'm glad he's made such a positive impact," Nees said.
Challenges and Determination
The German coach acknowledged the challenges posed by a condensed schedule, limited training opportunities, and injuries but emphasized the importance of ending the qualifiers with a strong performance.
"Winning against a big opponent like Cameroon can boost the team's confidence and rankings," Nees added.
Looking Ahead
As the Warriors prepare for Morocco 2025, tomorrow's match offers a chance to fine-tune the squad and build momentum. Zimbabwe's football fans will be hoping for a strong finish to the qualifiers, showcasing the team's readiness for Africa's premier football tournament.
In his three months at the helm, Nees has guided the Warriors to AFCON, becoming the second foreign coach after Zdravko Logarusic to achieve this feat. His team is undefeated in five challenging matches against Kenya, Namibia, and Cameroon.
Last Friday, Zimbabwe sealed their ticket to Morocco with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kenya at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. Tomorrow's encounter presents an opportunity to finish the campaign strongly, with Zimbabwe just two points behind group leaders Cameroon.
Injury Setbacks and Squad Adjustments
The Warriors will be without France-based midfielder Marshal Munetsi, who has been granted compassionate leave, and defender Gerald Takwara, sidelined by a shoulder injury. With no replacements called up, Nees hinted at giving opportunities to less-utilized players like goalkeeper Marley Tavaziva and Emmanuel Jalai.
Despite these challenges, Nees remains optimistic. "We will play Cameroon with maximum concentration and focus. These games matter for rankings and for the team's morale," he said.
Khama Billiat's Influence
Nees highlighted the importance of Khama Billiat, who came out of international retirement at the coach's request. Billiat's creativity has been crucial, filling a void behind the striker. "Convincing Billiat to return wasn't easy. Professional players need assurance of professionalism, and I'm glad he's made such a positive impact," Nees said.
Challenges and Determination
The German coach acknowledged the challenges posed by a condensed schedule, limited training opportunities, and injuries but emphasized the importance of ending the qualifiers with a strong performance.
"Winning against a big opponent like Cameroon can boost the team's confidence and rankings," Nees added.
Looking Ahead
As the Warriors prepare for Morocco 2025, tomorrow's match offers a chance to fine-tune the squad and build momentum. Zimbabwe's football fans will be hoping for a strong finish to the qualifiers, showcasing the team's readiness for Africa's premier football tournament.
Source - The Herald
