Zimbabwe’s World Cup qualification hopes declined after a 2-2 draw with Benin. A defensive error from Washington Arubi led to two early Benin goals. Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona scored for Zimbabwe to equalize. The Warriors are now at the bottom of Group C with three points, facing a crucial upcoming match against Nigeria.
Zimbabwe’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup have been severely impacted after a disappointing 2-2 draw with Benin in Durban. Early in the match, goalkeeper Washington Arubi made a crucial error that allowed Benin to score followed by another defensive lapse, putting Zimbabwe down 2-0 by the 35th minute. Dominating initial phases, Zimbabwe was unable to convert their chances into goals due to miscommunication and defensive mistakes.
Despite the setbacks, Marshall Munetsi’s goal just before halftime breathed life into the Warriors, making it 2-1. This was set up by Jordan Zemura’s assist, providing a much-needed boost heading into the second half. Zimbabwe continued to exert pressure and equalized when Knowledge Musona scored from a free-kick situation, converting Zemura’s clever delivery.
Coach Michael Nees acknowledged the effort exerted by his players, stating that their comeback from a 2-0 deficit was exhausting but showed character. Although the draw marked a significant moment, it left Zimbabwe at the bottom of Group C with only three points from five matches, while Benin sits atop with eight points. A loss against Nigeria in their next match would eliminate Zimbabwe’s chances of World Cup qualification.
The draw against Benin has placed Zimbabwe’s FIFA World Cup qualification in jeopardy, leaving them at the bottom of Group C. Despite a resilient performance to equalize, their path forward is fraught, with their next match against Nigeria looming. The team’s response and performance against Nigeria will ultimately determine their chance to qualify for their first World Cup.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
