President Mnangagwa promised a US$150,000 bonus for each Warriors win in the World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria, aiming for a total of US$300,000 if both matches are won. The team faces challenges playing in South Africa due to domestic stadium issues, but the pledge underscores government support for their World Cup aspirations.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced a US$150,000 bonus for each victory by Zimbabwe’s national men’s football team, the Warriors, in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. If the Warriors win both matches on March 20 and March 25, they will earn a total of US$300,000, complementing the US$1 million previously pledged for their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
The announcement highlights the financial struggles Zimbabwe faces in hosting international matches, as it lacks FIFA-recognized stadiums. The Warriors will play their home fixtures in South Africa, as Zimbabwe’s National Sports Stadium is undergoing renovations. This stadium has been under scrutiny since 2020 for not meeting CAF’s international standards.
Nqobile Magwizi, the president of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), confirmed the president’s pledge but did not specify the source of the funds—whether they were allocated personally by Mnangagwa or from the government. He emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting the Warriors in their pursuit of World Cup qualification and urged national unity in support of the team.
The Warriors are aspiring to qualify for their first FIFA World Cup, and this financial incentive could significantly boost their morale as they prepare for these vital matches. The nation is encouraged to unite in support as the team strives for success on the international stage.
President Mnangagwa’s pledge of US$150,000 per win for the Warriors highlights the government’s support while facing challenges in infrastructure for international matches. The financial incentives aim to boost morale as the team strives for World Cup qualification, with home matches being played in South Africa due to local stadium issues. The call for national unity to support the Warriors underscores the significance of this campaign in Zimbabwe’s football history.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com
