Mnangagwa Offers $150,000 Winning Bonus for Warriors’ Matches

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged a $150,000 bonus per victory for Zimbabwe’s Warriors in their FIFA World Cup qualifiers. If they win both matches against Benin and Nigeria, they will earn $300,000, complementing an existing government pledge of $1 million for AFCON. Zimbabwe lacks a FIFA-approved stadium, complicating home game logistics. ZIFA’s president highlighted governmental support for football development and urged national unity behind the team.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced a significant financial incentive for Zimbabwe’s national men’s football team, the Warriors, offering a US$150,000 bonus for each victory in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Should the Warriors secure wins against Benin on March 20 and Nigeria on March 25, they would collectively earn US$300,000, in addition to a pre-set government pledge of US$1 million for their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.

The announcement, made on Thursday, comes in light of ongoing challenges Zimbabwe faces in hosting international football matches. Currently, the nation lacks a FIFA-approved stadium, which has necessitated the Warriors to play their home games in South Africa. The National Sports Stadium in Harare, the only facility nearing compliance with international standards, has been undergoing renovations since 2020, a situation flagged by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

This incentive was formally communicated by Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Nqobile Magwizi, who did not clarify whether the funds originate from Mnangagwa’s personal finances or represent government support. Magwizi emphasized the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering football’s growth in Zimbabwe and its aspirations for the Warriors in their quest for World Cup qualification.

He encouraged the nation to support the team, conveying that the Warriors carry the hopes and pride of Zimbabwe. The country is intensely focused on achieving its first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup.

In conclusion, President Mnangagwa’s announcement of a US$150,000 victory bonus for the Warriors reflects a strong governmental commitment to the growth of football in Zimbabwe. Despite the challenges of lacking a FIFA-approved stadium, the pledge aims to motivate the team as it seeks to qualify for its inaugural FIFA World Cup. The Zimbabwean public is encouraged to rally behind their national team.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com