Nees' poor Warriors' record a serious concern

Zimbabwe's 1-0 defeat to Benin has dashed the nation's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and intensified scrutiny on head coach Michael Nees and the Warriors' ongoing struggles. Since taking charge in August last year, Nees' record has raised concerns, with the team securing only two consecutive victories while languishing at the bottom of their World Cup qualifying group.

Inheriting a squad brimming with talent but burdened by a history of underperformance, Nees has struggled to turn draws into wins. Of his 11 matches in charge, the team has recorded six draws and three losses, with victories largely limited to a successful 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign. While qualifying for AFCON is a positive outcome, the team's World Cup form has been underwhelming.

The loss to Benin exemplified the Warriors' issues, with a lack of attacking ambition and a static defense punished by a solitary headed goal from Steve Mounié. Despite moments of individual quality, such as Knowledge Musona's early free-kick, the team appeared disjointed and lacked the urgency necessary to compete at this level. Combined with previous draws against Benin and Nigeria, Zimbabwe now has only four points from seven matches, extinguishing any remaining World Cup hopes.

Critics have highlighted Nees' reliance on aging players as a key problem. The starting lineup against Benin featured veterans including goalkeeper Washington Arubi (40), Knowledge Musona (35), Marvellous Nakamba (31), and Tino Kadewere (29). While experience can be an asset, it has contributed to a lack of pace and dynamism. The absence of suspended vice-captain Marshall Munetsi and club-hunting Andy Rinomhota exposed the team's dependence on a small core of individuals.

With World Cup qualification off the table, Nees now has an opportunity to pivot towards building for the future. Tuesday's match against Rwanda at Orlando Stadium presents a chance to integrate younger talent such as in-form striker Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, Finland-based teenage midfielder Prosper Padera, and defender Tivonge Rushesha. Giving these players game time is vital for shaping a competitive squad for the upcoming AFCON finals and beyond.

Nees' tenure has so far produced limited success, and the World Cup campaign in particular has been a failure. The lack of wins and inconsistent performances indicate that the team is not progressing under his leadership. Moving forward, the focus must shift from salvaging a failed campaign to developing a squad capable of competing effectively in future tournaments. Tuesday's match against Rwanda will serve as a litmus test of Nees' willingness to embrace a new era and provide Zimbabwe's promising young players with the opportunities they deserve.