Zimbabwe recall Knowledge Musona after three-year absence

CAF

12-03-2025

Zimbabwe's hopes of qualifying for their first-ever FIFA World Cup have received a massive boost with the return of Knowledge Musona, who has been recalled to the Warriors squad after a three-year absence.
The former national team captain, who last played for Zimbabwe in 2022 before announcing his retirement from international football, has accepted a call-up from the national team ahead of two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.
Musona, now playing for Al-Okhdood in Saudi Arabia, is expected to provide vital experience and leadership to a squad looking to make history.
Musona's return headlines a well-balanced squad, as head coach aims to combine seasoned internationals with emerging talents.
In defence, the Warriors will rely on the Premier Soccer League and Serie A experience of Jordan Zemura (Udinese) and Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns) to provide stability at the back.
In midfield, Marshall Munetsi (Reims) and Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town) are expected to dictate the tempo, adding defensive solidity and creativity in attack.
Up front, Prince Dube (Young Africans) and Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell) will look to provide the firepower, while Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town) is an exciting young talent who could surprise.
The Warriors will first face Benin on March 20 in Durban, a match seen as a must-win to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Four days later, Zimbabwe will travel to Uyo, Nigeria, where they will face a star-studded Super Eagles side, making it one of their toughest challenges yet.
With the team currently struggling in the qualifiers, a positive result against Benin will be crucial to building confidence before facing one of Africa's strongest teams. Squad
Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)
Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Peter Muduhwa (Scotland), Godknows Murwira (Scotland), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)
Midfielders: Marshall Munetsi (Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Mihood), Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town), Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood)
Forwards: Prince Dube (Young Africans), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tymon Machope (Scotland), Walter Musona (Scotland)