Munetsi, Billiat missing

Vice-captain Marshall Munetsi and veteran forward Khama Billiat have been left out of the Warriors squad named for the upcoming international friendlies against Algeria and Qatar, scheduled during the November FIFA window.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Thursday released a 24-man squad as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Despite the absence of two of Zimbabwe's most recognisable stars, the squad features a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talent drawn from both local and foreign leagues.

ZIFA said the friendlies will serve as crucial tests for head coach Marian Marinica and his technical team, who are using the fixtures to fine-tune tactics, build team chemistry, and assess squad depth before competitive qualifiers resume next year.

"These matches are part of our broader preparation plan. The coaching team wants to evaluate different combinations and player adaptability under international conditions," ZIFA said in a statement.

Munetsi's omission comes as a surprise given his consistent form for Wolves.

Their absence could pave the way for younger players to stake a claim for regular selection ahead of the AFCON qualifiers.

Zimbabwe's clash with Algeria, one of Africa's top-ranked sides, is expected to provide a stern test of the Warriors' progress, while the fixture against Qatar will offer valuable exposure to different styles of play.

The Warriors are seeking to rebuild consistency and cohesion after a turbulent few years marked by administrative challenges and intermittent international participation.

The full squad list is expected to be made public ahead of the team's camp this weekend.


Full Warriors Squad

Goalkeepers:
Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants FC), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)

Defenders:
Gerald Takwara (Al Ittihad Misurata SC, Libya), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Godknows Murwira (Scottland FC), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos FC), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns FC), Brandon Galloway (Plymouth Argyle FC)

Midfielders:
Jonah Fabisch (FC Erzgebirge Aue), Tawanda Chirewa (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town FC), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday FC), Prosper Padera (SJK Seinäjoki), Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants FC)

Strikers:
Knowledge Musona (Scottland FC), Tymon Machope (Scottland FC), Prince Dube (Young Africans SC), Washington Navaya (TelOne FC), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell FC), Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen FC), Walter Musona (Scottland FC)

Technical Team
Head Coach: Marian Marinica
Assistant Coach: Kaitano Tembo
Goalkeepers' Coach: Pernel Charles Mckop
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Chikondi Mandalasi
Fitness Trainer: Abraham Mbaiwa
Analysts: Ronald Dumisani Moroka, James Makoni.