Story by Lawrence Trusida , Sports Editor
HARARE – ZIMBABWE Warriors head coach Michael Nees has named two separate squads for the upcoming international friendly matches against Burkina Faso and Niger, as well as for the 2025 COSAFA Cup, all set for June.
The Warriors are scheduled to take on Burkina Faso on June 6 in Morocco, followed by a clash against Niger four days later.
Simultaneously, a youthful Zimbabwe side will compete in the COSAFA Cup, which kicks off on June 4 in South Africa.
The Morocco-bound squad includes several notable returnees. In-form South Africa-based goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze makes a return to the national fold, as does midfielder Jonah Fabisch, who last featured for Zimbabwe four years ago.
Also back in the Warriors line-up is Nantes striker Tino Kadewere, who had been absent in recent national team assignments.
“We are coming off the end of the season with several players carrying injuries. Some have been playing through knocks, so we have opted to rest them. Marvelous Nakamba, Marshall Munetsi, and Jordan Zemura among them. Others like Tawanda Chirewa and Andy Rinomhota are also out injured. It has been a difficult selection process,” Warriors coach, Michael Nees said.
Coach Nees for the COSAFA Cup, he revealed that the Under-20 national team coach, Simon Marange, will take charge of the Warriors squad for the COSAFA Cup, assisted by Joel Luphahla and Chenjerai Dube.
This squad places emphasis on youth development, with the majority of players eligible for the 2028 Olympic qualifiers, which begin next year.
“For the COSAFA squad, we prioritised younger players to begin building a competitive team for Olympic qualification. However, we’ve also included some senior players like Andrew Mbeba to guide the youngsters. Mbeba will captain the team, supported by Vice-captain Martin Mapisa,” Warriors coach said.
Rising stars get their chance, among the promising names is, Crystal Palace defender Kuraishe Musanhu, who will battle for a place in the backline alongside Tashinga Mashonganyika, Allen Chapinduka, and Arter Kaseke.
Midfield dynamism is expected from Prosper Padera (Finland) and Menzi Mazwi (Birmingham City), with Junior Makunike (Simba Bhora) and Prince Ndlovu (Highlanders) bringing much-needed experience.
Up front, Thando Ngwenya (FC Platinum), Mafios Chiweta, and Tanaka Chirera (Bury, England) will be tasked with providing attacking firepower.
The two squads are expected to begin camp on Monday next week, as preparations intensify ahead of a packed international football calendar.
