Johnson Progress

Zimbabwe’s National Soccer Team head coach Michael Nees has named a largely experimental squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Burkina Faso and Niger.

The matches will be played in Morocco on 6 and 10 June respectively.

The squad features a mix of experienced players and young talent, with several key players rested, including Andy Rinomhota, Jordan Zemura, Marshall Munetsi, Tivonge Rushesha, and veteran forward Knowledge Musona. Marvelous Nakamba, recently back to full fitness, was also left out after missing previous fixtures due to injury.

Goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze and Germany-based midfielder Jonah Fabisch return to the squad, while forwards Tinotenda Kadewere and Bill Antonio are back after recovering from injuries.

One notable inclusion is 19-year-old Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Sean Fusire, who has opted to represent Zimbabwe at international level despite being born in England to Zimbabwean parents.

Several players who impressed during the recent COSAFA Cup campaign, including strikers Billy Vheremu, Michael Tapera, and Washington Navaya, as well as midfielder Donald Mudadi Shandirwa, were left out of the squad.

The squad includes:

– Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi, Elvis Chipezeze, and Marley Tavaziva
– Defenders: Teenage Hadebe, Gerald Takwara, Munashe Garananga, Isheanesu Mauchi, Peter Muduhwa, Godknows Murwira, and Emmanuel Jalai
– Midfielders: Mthokozisi Msebe, Khama Billiat, Richard Hachiro, Jonah Fabisch, Donald Mudadi, Sean Fusire, Daniel Msendami, and Bill Antonio
– Forwards: Prince Dube, Tawanda Maswanhise, Walter Musona, Tawanda Macheke, and Tino Kadewere

Meanwhile, a separate squad has been named for the upcoming COSAFA Cup tournament.

The squad, led by coach Simon Marange, features a mix of experienced players and young talent from both local and international clubs.

The squad includes three goalkeepers: Martin Mapisa (MVWOS), Joseph Kaunda (Manica Diamonds), and Tatenda Chikohwero (Ngezi Platinum). Mapisa, a seasoned goalkeeper, will likely play a key role in the team’s success.

The defensive lineup is anchored by experienced players like Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders), who will captain the team, and Arter Kaseke (Ngezi Platinum). Other defenders include Tashinga Mashonganyika (Ngezi Platinum), Allan Chapinduka (TelOne FC), Simbarashe Takaedza (TelOne FC), and Kurainashe Musanhi (Crystal Palace).

The midfield is packed with talented players, including Prosper Padera (SJK Seinajoki, Finland), Menzi Mazwi (Birmingham City, England), and Kennedy Mupomba (Chelmsford FC, England). Other midfielders include Vusa Ngwenya (Dynamos), Junior Makunike (Simba Bhora), Nisbert Muzenda (Ngezi Platinum), Prince Ndlovu (Highlanders), and Calvin Chigara (TelOne FC).

The attacking lineup features a mix of pace and skill, with players like Tinotenda Meke (Simba Bhora), Mafios Chiweta (Highlanders), and Tanaka Munemo (Ngezi Platinum).

Other forwards include Thando Ngwenya (FC Platinum), Tanaka Cherera (Bury FC, England), and Denzel Mapuwa (Green Fuel).

The coaching staff includes head coach Simon Marange, assistant coach Joel Lupahla, goalkeeper coach Chenjerai Dube, fitness coach Jimmy Tigere, analyst Tatenda Munyaradzi, doctor Nyasha Banga, and physiotherapist Anotidaishe Dube.

The Warriors will face stiff competition in the COSAFA Cup, with teams like Mozambique, Mauritius, and hosts South Africa in Pool A.

With a talented squad and experienced coaching staff, the team will aim to make a strong impression in the tournament and bring home the coveted trophy.

The 2025 COSAFA Cup promises to be an exciting tournament, with Zimbabwe’s Warriors looking to make their mark.

With a well-balanced squad and a clear strategy, the team will be gunning for success in the competition.