Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE’s Warriors will begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a demanding Group B encounter against seven-time champions Egypt on Monday, as they seek to make a strong statement on their return to the continental stage.
The Warriors are currently camped in Marrakech, where they have been intensifying preparations since arriving earlier this week. However, they will travel to Agadir for their opening fixture before returning to the “Red City” for subsequent group engagements.
Zimbabwe enters the tournament with clear ambition, targeting progression beyond the group stages for the first time in their AFCON history. Technical preparations have focused on tactical discipline, match fitness and adaptability, particularly against experienced opposition.
Preparations suffered a setback on Friday after midfielder Andy Rinomhota withdrew from the squad, citing personal reasons. Under CAF regulations, teams are permitted to name a replacement prior to the start of the tournament, subject to approval and timely submission of documentation.
Zimbabwe named an expanded 28-man squad, taking advantage of CAF’s decision to allow larger squads for this edition of the tournament, an increase from the traditional 23-player limit.
In the other Group B fixture on Monday, regional rivals South Africa will face Angola in Marrakech, adding further intrigue to what is shaping up to be a competitive group.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations officially gets underway on Sunday, with host nation Morocco opening the tournament against Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
