Johnson Progress

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has appointed Kaitano Tembo as the Warriors’ second assistant coach ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

 

Tembo, a former defender who captained the Warriors during his playing career, joins the national team setup after a successful stint as head coach of South African Premier Soccer League side Sekhukhune United.

 

Tembo’s appointment marks his first involvement with the national team in a coaching capacity.

 

He will work under German coach Michael Nees, alongside assistant coach Takesure Chiragwi.

 

“I’m coming in there to help the technical, tactical, match analysis as well as player scouting,” Tembo explained, highlighting his areas of contribution.

 

The Warriors are set to face crucial matches against South Africa and Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

 

Zimbabwe will play Bafana Bafana at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on October 10, before traveling to Polokwane to face Lesotho three days later at Peter Mokaba Stadium.

 

These fixtures will serve as a test for the team ahead of the AFCON tournament in Morocco.

 

Warriors coach Michael Nees expressed confidence in Tembo’s ability to strengthen the team’s technical bench.

 

“When I first came here last year, Kaitano was my preferred choice as assistant because I didn’t know many people at the time,” Nees said.

 

“He has gained a wealth of experience working in South Africa, which will be valuable for us,” he added.

 

ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi welcomed Tembo to the team, emphasizing the association’s commitment to success.

 

“We want to put our best foot forward in the remaining World Cup qualifiers and at the upcoming AFCON tournament,” Magwizi said.

 

“That’s why we have also brought in Coach Kaitano Tembo to help us be what we all want to be.”

 

Tembo expressed his excitement about joining the Warriors setup, acknowledging his in-depth knowledge of the South African game.

 

“Yes, I know the South Africans well,” he said.

 

“I am glad to have been given this opportunity to work with the national team… I look forward to the challenge and I should say I am really excited to be here and to be given a role to try and contribute towards the success of our national team.”

 

The appointment of Tembo comes alongside the announcement of the Warriors’ squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

 

The team features a mix of experienced players and young talents, including Khama Billiat, Knowledge Musona, and Teenage Hadebe.

 

With Tembo’s expertise and the team’s determination, Zimbabwe aims to make a strong impression in the AFCON tournament.