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Nees shifts focus to Afcon
08 Sep 2025 at 15:54hrs |
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Following Zimbabwe's 1-0 defeat to Benin in Abidjan, Warriors coach Michael Nees has confirmed that the team's remaining 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers will now serve as preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday's clash against Rwanda at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, Nees acknowledged the heartbreak of missing out on World Cup qualification but emphasised the need to use the remaining matches constructively.
"It's now a project towards the Afcon finals. At the same time, we need to be fair competitors for the other teams still fighting for qualification. We can't be accused of not taking these matches seriously. We want to win and get into a winning mood heading into Afcon," he said.
The German tactician also hinted at the opportunity to test fresh talent in upcoming fixtures.
"We will also try out a few new players. Of course, we gave others a chance earlier, and while these are World Cup qualifiers we want to win, we also need to show a different face in the coming games," Nees added.
Zimbabwe will compete in Group B at Afcon 2025, facing Egypt, South Africa, and Angola. Fans will be keen to see a rejuvenated Warriors side capable of challenging Africa's football heavyweights as they look to restore pride and momentum ahead of the continental tournament.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday's clash against Rwanda at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, Nees acknowledged the heartbreak of missing out on World Cup qualification but emphasised the need to use the remaining matches constructively.
"It's now a project towards the Afcon finals. At the same time, we need to be fair competitors for the other teams still fighting for qualification. We can't be accused of not taking these matches seriously. We want to win and get into a winning mood heading into Afcon," he said.
The German tactician also hinted at the opportunity to test fresh talent in upcoming fixtures.
"We will also try out a few new players. Of course, we gave others a chance earlier, and while these are World Cup qualifiers we want to win, we also need to show a different face in the coming games," Nees added.
Zimbabwe will compete in Group B at Afcon 2025, facing Egypt, South Africa, and Angola. Fans will be keen to see a rejuvenated Warriors side capable of challenging Africa's football heavyweights as they look to restore pride and momentum ahead of the continental tournament.
Source - online
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