The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is yet to make an official announcement, but a leaked squad list has revealed the Warriors team set to face Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The match is scheduled for June 7, 2024, at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.
The squad comprises a blend of seasoned players and young talents, showcasing a promising mix of experience and youth. Goalkeepers Martin Mapisa, Marley Tavaziva, and Bernard Donovan make the cut, with Mapisa and Donovan offering veteran presence.
The defense features Teenage Hadebe, Munashe Garananga, Gerald Takwara, Peter Muduhwa, Jordan Zemura, Divine Lunga, Brendan Galloway, and Joey Phuthi. Zemura’s inclusion is a significant boost, given his impressive performances for Udinese in Italy.
In midfield, Kingsley Mureremba, Tivonge Rushesha, Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Tawanda Chirewa, Zanda Siziba, Walter Musona, and Tawanda Maswanhise offer a dynamic blend of creativity and work rate. The experienced Munetsi and Musona will likely play key roles.
Upfront, Tino Kadewere, Macauley Bonne, Lynoth Chikuhwa, and Leon Chiwome form a formidable attacking quartet. Kadewere’s pace and skill will be crucial, while Bonne’s physicality and finishing ability make him a valuable asset.
Notably, Khama Billiat’s inclusion at 33 years old brings a wealth of experience, despite his recent retirement from international football.
While this squad is subject to change, it indicates a promising direction for the Warriors ahead of the Lesotho clash. The team’s balance of youth and experience could prove pivotal in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Here is the leaked Warriors squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Martin Mapisa, Marley Tavaziva, Bernard Donovan
Defenders: Teenage Hadebe, Munashe Garananga, Gerald Takwara, Peter Muduhwa, Jordan Zemura, Divine Lunga, Brendan Galloway, Joey Phuthi
Midfielders: Kingsley Mureremba, Tivonge Rushesha, Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Tawanda Chirewa, Zanda Siziba, Walter Musona, Tawanda Maswanhise, Khama Billiat
Forwards: Tino Kadewere, Macauley Bonne, Lynoth Chikuhwa, Leon Chiwenga