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Fusire saga puts ZIFA in the spotlight
02 Sep 2025 at 06:53hrs | 262 Views
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has come under heavy criticism following the withdrawal of England-based midfielder Sean Fusire from the Warriors squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers.
Fusire, who plays for Sheffield Wednesday, was initially included in the team to face Benin and Rwanda. However, he was later dropped after failing a routine medical test upon arrival in camp.
The incident has raised questions about ZIFA's selection process and logistics. Critics say the association should have carried out thorough assessments before calling up the player, to avoid embarrassing last-minute changes.
"This shows poor planning. You don't invite a player from overseas only to discover at camp that he is unfit to play," said football commentator Mike Madoda.
The Fusire case follows other logistical mishaps that have plagued the Warriors in recent years, including delayed travel arrangements and disputes over player welfare.
ZIFA officials have defended themselves, saying Fusire's medical issue only became apparent upon arrival and could not have been foreseen. Still, the episode has fuelled concerns over the association's capacity to manage national team affairs effectively.
Fusire, who plays for Sheffield Wednesday, was initially included in the team to face Benin and Rwanda. However, he was later dropped after failing a routine medical test upon arrival in camp.
The incident has raised questions about ZIFA's selection process and logistics. Critics say the association should have carried out thorough assessments before calling up the player, to avoid embarrassing last-minute changes.
The Fusire case follows other logistical mishaps that have plagued the Warriors in recent years, including delayed travel arrangements and disputes over player welfare.
ZIFA officials have defended themselves, saying Fusire's medical issue only became apparent upon arrival and could not have been foreseen. Still, the episode has fuelled concerns over the association's capacity to manage national team affairs effectively.
Source - the herald
