Pokello's son in Warriors squad raises dust

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is facing intense criticism following the last-minute and unexplained inclusion of Scotland-based midfielder Nathan Mutasa in the Warriors squad set to take part in the 2025 Cosafa Cup, which kicks off in Bloemfontein, South Africa, tomorrow.

Mutasa, the son of businesswoman and socialite Pokello Nare, was not named in the initial 23-man squad announced by interim Warriors coach Michael Nees last week. However, he was unexpectedly added to the travelling squad, and was seen yesterday at Robert Mugabe International Airport dressed in full Warriors kit before boarding the flight to South Africa.

Reports suggest that Dynamos midfielder Vusa Ngwenya was dropped to accommodate Mutasa, although no official statement has been issued by ZIFA to confirm or explain the switch  -  a notable departure from the association's usual communication practices. Scottland FC, Mutasa's club, briefly announced his call-up on social media before deleting the posts, fuelling speculation of backroom dealings.

The last-minute change has sparked outrage among fans, many of whom took to social media to question Mutasa's credentials and the legitimacy of his selection, especially given his limited appearances and underwhelming performances at club level.

"In this life, it's all about who you know and how you know them," wrote Facebook user Benjamin Banda.

"This has to be one of the most shameless things I've ever witnessed in Zimbabwean football. The game has been hijacked… it's no longer about talent or passion, but power and shady backroom deals," added Callum Chirisa.

Another fan, Michael Manhiyo, simply wrote, "This is sad."

Sydwell Nhidza commented, "What a pity."

The controversial inclusion raises questions about technical oversight, especially as coach Michael Nees is currently away in Morocco with the main Warriors squad, which is preparing for friendly matches against Burkina Faso and Niger. The Cosafa squad is being led by junior coach Simon Marange, with Simba Bhora boss Joel Luphahla as his assistant.

Zimbabwe's Cosafa team landed in South Africa last night ahead of their Group A opener against Mauritius tomorrow at 6 PM. The group also features hosts South Africa and Mozambique  -  none of whom have beaten Zimbabwe in Cosafa Cup history. Zimbabwe boasts a record of three wins and two draws against Mozambique, two wins against Mauritius, and are unbeaten against South Africa in the competition.

The Warriors are six-time Cosafa Cup champions, with their last title in 2018 under legendary coach Sunday Chidzambga. However, the team has struggled in recent editions, failing to progress past the group stages in 2021, and often fielding understrength squads.

This year's controversy threatens to overshadow the tournament for Zimbabwe, with growing calls for transparency and accountability within ZIFA, particularly regarding player selection processes.

The Warriors face Mauritius tomorrow, followed by matches against Mozambique and South Africa in the coming week.

Warriors Cosafa squad
Goalkeepers: Martin Mapisa (Mwos), Joseph Kaunda (Manica Diamonds), Tatenda Chikohwero (Ngezi Platinum Stars).

Defenders: Tashinga Mashonganyika, Arter Kaseke (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Allan Chapinduka, Simba Takaedza (TelOne), Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders), Kurainashe Musanhi (Crystal Palace, ENG).

Midfielders: Prosper Padera (SJK Seinajoki, FIN), Menzi Mazwi (Birmingham City, ENG), Junior Makunike (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Nisbet Muzenda (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Prince Ndlovu (Highlanders), Kennedy Mupomba (Chelmsford, ENG), Calvin Chigara (TelOne), Nathan Mutasa (Scottland).

Forwards: Tinotenda Meke (Simba Bhora), Mafios Chiweta (Highlanders), Tanaka Munemo (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Thando Ngwenya (Fc Platinum), Tanaka Cherera (Bury Fc, ENG), Denzel Mapuwa (GreenFuel).