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Warriors call up Scottland FC striker after Dynamos heroics
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In-form striker Tymon Machope has received a late call-up to the Warriors squad ahead of Zimbabwe's crucial World Cup qualifiers, following a match-winning performance against Dynamos.
Machope, who plays for newly promoted side Scotland FC, netted a brace in his team's 2-1 victory over Dynamos on Saturday. The 22-year-old has been a revelation this season, scoring 12 goals so far, just one behind current top scorer Washington Navaya.
Coach Jairos Tapera included Machope in the Warriors squad that faces Benin on September 5 in Abidjan, followed by Rwanda on September 9. The matches are must-win for Zimbabwe, who sit at the bottom of Group C with four points.
"This is an opportunity I've been waiting for all my life," said Machope. "I'm ready to give everything for my country and help the Warriors fight for qualification."
Football analysts welcomed the decision, saying the squad needs fresh attacking options. "Zimbabwe has struggled to convert chances in previous matches. Machope's inclusion is timely because he is in red-hot form," said sports commentator Mike Madoda.
The Warriors are under pressure after a slow start in the qualifiers. With only the group winners guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup, Zimbabwe must secure back-to-back victories to keep their hopes alive.
Fans on social media expressed excitement at Machope's call-up, with many saying he deserves his shot. "Finally, merit is being recognised. Let's give the boy a chance," one supporter posted.
Machope, who plays for newly promoted side Scotland FC, netted a brace in his team's 2-1 victory over Dynamos on Saturday. The 22-year-old has been a revelation this season, scoring 12 goals so far, just one behind current top scorer Washington Navaya.
Coach Jairos Tapera included Machope in the Warriors squad that faces Benin on September 5 in Abidjan, followed by Rwanda on September 9. The matches are must-win for Zimbabwe, who sit at the bottom of Group C with four points.
"This is an opportunity I've been waiting for all my life," said Machope. "I'm ready to give everything for my country and help the Warriors fight for qualification."
Football analysts welcomed the decision, saying the squad needs fresh attacking options. "Zimbabwe has struggled to convert chances in previous matches. Machope's inclusion is timely because he is in red-hot form," said sports commentator Mike Madoda.
The Warriors are under pressure after a slow start in the qualifiers. With only the group winners guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup, Zimbabwe must secure back-to-back victories to keep their hopes alive.
Fans on social media expressed excitement at Machope's call-up, with many saying he deserves his shot. "Finally, merit is being recognised. Let's give the boy a chance," one supporter posted.
Source - NewZimbabwe
