Warriors Arrive In Abidjan Ahead Of World Cup Qualifier Against Benin

Local-based senior national team players have arrived in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, ahead of Zimbabwe’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Benin.

The delegation landed on Monday afternoon, with the squad including Godknows Murwira, Walter Musona, Emmanuel Jalai, Terrence Dzvukamanja, Martin Mapisa, Knowledge Musona, Tymon Machope, Gerald Takwara, Tawanda Chirewa, Marvelous Nakamba, Washington Arubi, Elvis Chipezeze, Thando Ngwenya, Divine Lunga, and Bill Antonio.

Machope was drafted in as a replacement for midfielder Jonah Fabisch, who has not recovered from a concussion. Midfielder Tivonge Rushesha, who plays for Reading in England, was also called up to replace Sean Fusire after contract negotiations with ZIFA collapsed.

Rushesha, Brendan Galloway, Tawanda Maswanhise, Munashe Garananga, Tino Kadewere, Prosper Padera, and Teenage Hadebe are all expected to arrive in Abidjan on Monday evening and overnight.

Zimbabwe face Benin on Friday before hosting Rwanda in South Africa next week. Jordan Zemura is expected to join camp on Tuesday evening, while Marshall Munetsi, serving a one-match suspension, will link up with the squad in Johannesburg.

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