The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign heats up next month as Zimbabwe’s Warriors face off against Namibia’s Brave Warriors in back-to-back Group J matches. Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, will host the crucial encounters on October 10 and 14.

Zimbabwe, led by new coach Michael Nees, has shown promise, earning two points from their opening fixtures against Kenya and Cameroon. The Warriors played both matches at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

In contrast, Namibia is still searching for its first point in Group J, having lost to both Cameroon and Kenya. The Brave Warriors will be determined to turn their fortunes around.

“The matches against Namibia are crucial for our AFCON qualification hopes,” said Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) spokesperson, Xolisani Gwesela. “We urge our fans to come out in numbers and support the team.”

Due to neither Zimbabwe nor Namibia having approved CAF-certified stadiums, the matches will be played on neutral ground.

The current Group J standings:

Cameroon – 6 points
Kenya – 6 points
Zimbabwe – 2 points
Namibia – 0 points

With the stakes high, these matches are make-or-break for both teams. Will the Warriors continue their upward trajectory, or can the Brave Warriors bounce back from their losses? Catch the action on October 10 and 14 at Orlando Stadium to find out!