Zimbabweans Urged to Embrace Realism as Warriors Tackle Rwanda – Coach Michael Nees
As the Warriors prepare to clash with Rwanda in a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Johannesburg’s Orlando Stadium, coach Michael Nees has urged Zimbabweans to temper their expectations and embrace a more grounded outlook. With the team languishing at the bottom of Group C with just four points from seven matches, Nees stressed that understanding the true context of Zimbabwe’s football journey is essential for rallying support behind the squad.
A Call for Among Zimbabweans For Unity Amid Setbacks
Addressing the media ahead of the September 9 fixture, Nees acknowledged the frustrations swirling among fans following the Warriors’ latest 1–0 loss to Benin. Yet rather than dwell on heartbreak, the German tactician urged national solidarity and optimism.
“Let’s pull together in one direction towards positivity,” he said, underlining a refusal to indulge in public scapegoating or tearing individuals down. He reminded everyone that Zimbabwe is not a nation that has frequently lifted AFCON trophies, much less qualified for World Cups—making criticism needlessly harsh.
He continued, “It’s not an easy business. We must recognise where we come from and pull together for positive change. We have talent—we are good—but only if we stick together.”
Inherited Challenges and a Dual-Purpose Campaign
Nees also highlighted the complexity of the campaign he inherited, noting that he took over from two different predecessors—Baltemar Brito and Jairos Tapera—and had since navigated a tough road. From the outset, this World Cup qualification effort was also intended to double as preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Now, with World Cup hopes fading, the focus has shifted firmly to delivering in the AFCON tournament.
As Nees put it, “This has always been a two-pronged project. We were chasing a World Cup appearance and also preparing for the AFCON. So, the AFCON is what is now there for us.”
Despite being officially knocked out from World Cup contention, Nees insisted that the Warriors must remain professional and competitive in their remaining fixtures: “We must be fair competitors because others are still there with a chance as well.”
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Fresh Faces, Renewed Hope
defence.The team’s preparations have also been altered by the absence of several key players—captain Marvellous Nakamba, defender Divine Lunga, and teenage stalwart Teenage Hadebe are all suspended. This has opened the door to younger talents such as Thando Ngwenya and Prosper Padera, who are expected to start against Rwanda. Meanwhile, Gerald Takwara is tipped to partner Munashe Garananga in central defense.
These lineup changes present a chance to inject fresh energy into the team. While the World Cup dream may be slipping away, the opportunity to gain momentum ahead of AFCON has its merits—both tactically and psychologically.
Looking Ahead: Building Momentum toward AFCON
In the face of disappointment, Nees’s message remains clear: realism is vital, but so is hope. The campaign’s dual nature means that every match is still valuable—whether for fine-tuning the squad, improving cohesion, or building narrative momentum for AFCON.
As the Warriors prepare to face Rwanda, Nees is calling on the country to cast aside cynicism. He wants fans, players, and media alike to unite behind the team—not simply to lament what’s gone wrong, but to fuel what still might go right.
