Zimbabwe has recalled Knowledge Musona to their national team after a three-year absence, aiming to strengthen their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Musona will bring vital experience as the team seeks to achieve qualification. The squad combines experienced players with emerging talents, creating a hopeful outlook for their upcoming matches.
Zimbabwe has bolstered its chances for a historic qualification to the FIFA World Cup with the return of Knowledge Musona to the Warriors squad after a three-year hiatus. Musona, who previously captained the national team, last played in 2022 before retiring from international football. He has now responded to a call-up for two pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.
Currently with Al-Okhdood in Saudi Arabia, Musona’s experience will be crucial for a team eager to achieve success. His inclusion is part of a strategy by the head coach to blend seasoned players and rising stars to create a balanced squad. Defensively, the Warriors will count on the talents of Jordan Zemura from Udinese and Divine Lunga of Mamelodi Sundowns to fortify their backline.
In midfield, the combination of Marshall Munetsi from Reims and Marvelous Nakamba from Luton Town is expected to provide a mix of defensive resilience and creative play. Up front, Prince Dube (Young Africans) and Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell) are poised to deliver scoring potential, alongside the promising young player Tawanda Chirewa from Huddersfield Town.
The Warriors are set to face Benin in Durban on March 20, a must-win match that could significantly impact their qualification efforts. Following this, Zimbabwe will travel to Uyo, Nigeria, to challenge the formidable Super Eagles, marking a formidable test for the squad. A crucial victory against Benin is essential for building momentum heading into the upcoming match against one of Africa’s strongest teams.
The current squad includes:
– Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)
– Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)
– Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi (Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Mihood, Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town), Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood)
– Forwards: Prince Dube (Young Africans), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tymon Machope (Scotland), Walter Musona (Scotland)
The recall of Knowledge Musona marks a significant milestone for Zimbabwe’s national team as they aim for their first FIFA World Cup qualification. His leadership, in conjunction with a mix of experienced and emerging players, strengthens the team’s prospects in the upcoming matches against Benin and Nigeria. With effective strategic planning and team cohesion, Zimbabwe can significantly enhance its chances of making history in international football.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
