Zimbabwe has announced a 23-man squad for key World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Former captain Knowledge Musona leads a mix of players from top leagues. Nigeria also prepares for these fixtures with a strong lineup, looking to turn their qualification campaign around. The upcoming matches are critical for both teams’ World Cup prospects.
Zimbabwe’s national football team has named a 23-player squad for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Currently at the bottom of Group C, the team holds two points from two matches and aims to improve their standing during these crucial fixtures set for March 20 and March 25.
Head coach Michael Nees has recalled former captain Knowledge Musona and included key players from leagues in Europe and South Africa. Noteworthy selections include Musona from Al-Okhdood in Saudi Arabia, Wolverhampton’s Marshall Munetsi, and Cardiff City’s Andy Rinomhota.
The squad also sees contributions from Luton Town’s Marvelous Nakamba and Huddersfield Town’s Tawanda Chirewa in midfield. Defensively, they will rely on Udinese’s Jordan Zemura, along with Munashe Garananga from FC Copenhagen and Divine Lunga from Mamelodi Sundowns. In goal, the group features young talent Marley Tavaziva, Washington Arubi, and Martin Mapisa.
In the attacking lineup, Nees has opted for Young Africans’ Prince Dube, Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise, and Supersport United’s Terrence Dzvukamanja. Additional squad members include Gerald Takwara, Isheanes Mauchi, Peter Muduhwa, Godknows Murwira, Emmanuel Jalai, Mihood, and Tymon Machope.
Zimbabwe will host Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium and then travel to Uyo, Nigeria, for their match against the Super Eagles at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle has confirmed the inclusion of key players such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, along with captain William Troost-Ekong and other premier league stars, as they look to recover from a disappointing start in the qualifiers.
Zimbabwe’s squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria includes notable players like Knowledge Musona and Marshall Munetsi, aiming to revive their campaign. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s star-studded lineup seeks vital points against Zimbabwe. Both matches are pivotal for the teams’ qualification aspirations, making them crucial encounters in the run-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Original Source: soccernet.ng
