Story by John Nhandara
HARARE – THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) says it has already started preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) slated for Morocco in December.
Appearing before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture this Wednesday, ZIFA presented oral evidence regarding the country’s preparedness for the continental tournament.
The committee also sought answers on ZIFA’s implementation of its strategic plan and 100 Day Cycle as well as its role in revamping the country’s stadia to ensure they meet international standards.
“We asked how far we have gone in preparing for the games because we do not want to be found confused when the games commence. We also wanted to find out how far the body has gone in implementing its strategic goals, the issue of corrupt match officials and how it is being addressed,” Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Hon Farai Jere said.
ZIFA revealed they are in the process of talent scouting, with friendly matches set to be played next month in Morrocco also a crucial opportunity for the Warriors coach to assess player readiness, test tactical combinations, and bolster the team ahead of the AFCON finals scheduled for December 21 this year to January 18, 2026.
“We are in the process of bolstering our squad with the coach scouting talent both locally and abroad. We have organised friendly matches to be played in Morocco with Niger and Burkina Faso. Apart from this, we will also have other closed-door matches in Casablanca. It will also be an opportunity for the coach to assess players,” ZIFA president, Nqobile Magwizi noted.
ZIFA also said the return of the ZIFA Cup is imminent.
“We are now at an advanced stage of re-introducing the ZIFA Cup and we will be launching it very soon,” Magwizi stated.
Other issues emerging from the committee included financing of the football governing body, the state of investment in women football, technical capacitation as well as measures being taken against corrupt match officials.
