Marvelous Nakamba, the midfielder for Luton Town, has been ruled out of the Warriors’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria due to injury. The injury setback is particularly unfortunate for Nakamba, who was initially set to captain the side.
To fill his shoes, coach Michael Nees has called up Richard Hachiro from Ngezi Platinum Stars. Hachiro's inclusion marks his opportunity to shine as the Warriors prepare for these significant qualifying matches.
Zimbabwe will host Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, this Thursday, March 20, 2025. The team will then travel to Uyo to face three-time African champions Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on March 25, 2025.
This change to the squad was officially announced by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Sunday. According to the announcement, "Richard Hachiro (Ngezi Platinum Stars) replaces Marvelous Nakamba." Unfortunately, Nakamba suffered a recurrence of his calf injury over the weekend, which has now sidelined him from this round of important qualifiers.
These qualifiers represent Zimbabwe's chance to secure their spot on the world stage, and without their captain, the team faces additional pressure. Coach Michael Nees had already made some bold decisions when he announced the squad last week, leaving out several notable players, including the South Africa-based goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze and the France-based Tino Kadewere, both of whom could have added depth to the lineup.
The Warriors will rely on their other experienced players, including goalkeepers Washington Arubi from Marumo Gallants, Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), and Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC). The defense is set to be bolstered by notable names like Jordan Zemura (Udinese) and Divine Lunga (Sundowns), with Gerald Takwara from Al Minaa SC, Munashe Garananga from FC Copenhagen, and others to form the backline.
Midfield control will be key, especially with the absence of Nakamba. The squad includes Marshall Munetsi from Stade de Reims and Knowledge Musona, who plays for Al-Okhdood, both expected to step up to the challenge. Hachiro’s addition adds some fresh legs to the midfield, which will be important against teams like Nigeria, known for their fast-paced play.
Attacking options feature Prince Dube of Young Africans, who aims to convert chances and lead the line alongside Tawanda Maswanhise from Motherwell and Terrence Dzvukamanja from Supersport United, both eager to find the back of the net. The inclusion of Tymon Machope from Scottiand and Walter Musona adds versatility and options up front.
With two matches lined up, the Warriors will aim to acquire valuable points against these tough opponents. The Zimbabwean players understand the significance of these matches, especially with the nation’s hopes resting heavily on building momentum to return to the World Cup after previous attempts.
The atmosphere at the Moses Mabhida Stadium is expected to be electric as fans gather to support their home side against Benin. Following this, the trip to Nigeria presents its own challenges, but the Warriors remain determined. Coach Nees will need to galvanize his players not just to fill the void left by Nakamba, but to inspire them to perform at their highest levels.
While some fans may feel anxious about Nakamba's absence, the team is rallying behind Hachiro and the squad they have assembled. With skillful players across the lineup, there is hope for success. The Warriors are poised for action as they strive for victory on this important path toward the FIFA World Cup.
