Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE conducted their first training session in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire, this Tuesday, ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Benin set for Friday.
With all the players having reported for camp, save for Jordan Zemura who is expected this Tuesday evening, the Warriors held their first training session in Abidjan.
Zimbabwe face Benin this Friday and Warriors head coach, Michael Nees is satisfied with the logistical arrangements.
“We are happy with the facilities that have been secured and ZIFA also arranged the travels well in time, making it easier for the team and even all the training facilities are close by so, we do not lose time travelling,” Nees said.
The German coach also explained some factors that influenced selection.
“For strikers it was a toss between Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya and Machope and we went for Thando because he is also in good form and was with us at the last camp and is younger. However, Machope also made a claim especially after scoring again at the weekend reminding us of his qualities so after the withdrawal of one player, it was an easy call.”
Zimbabwe face Benin this Friday before moving to South Africa where they will host Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
The Warriors are bottom of Group C with four points while Benin are third with eight points same as second-placed Rwanda.
South Africa tops the group with 13 points while giants Nigeria are fourth with seven points, one ahead of Lesotho.
