Zimbabwe Draws 2-2 with Benin in World Cup Qualifier Amidst Goalkeeper Blunder
Zimbabwe drew 2-2 with Benin in a World Cup qualifier, salvaged by a strong performance from Knowledge Musona. Arubi’s early blunder contributed to Benin’s lead, but Zimbabwe rallied to equalize, aided by two assists from Jordan Zemura. The result leaves Zimbabwe at the bottom of Group C, needing a win against Nigeria next.
In a recent World Cup qualifier match, Zimbabwe secured a 2-2 draw against Benin despite a costly mistake by goalkeeper Washington Arubi. In the 12th minute, Arubi failed to manage a back pass, which allowed Benin’s Dokou Dodo to assist Steve Mounie for the opening goal. Following this misstep, Benin controlled much of the first half and extended their lead in the 35th minute with another goal from Dokou Dodo, benefitting from their team’s effective passing in the box.
The Warriors responded with a goal from captain Marshall Munetsi, who capitalized on a back pass from Jordan Zemura, reducing the deficit to 2-1 by halftime. Coach Michael Nees responded to the situation with a tactical substitution after the break, bringing in Tawanda Chirewa for striker Prince Dube, while Knowledge Musona was repositioned to center forward. This change proved beneficial as Musona equalized in the 59th minute with a well-crafted finish from a short pass off a free kick.
Musona had further opportunities to score but was unable to convert after another impressive cross from Jordan Zemura. In the 83rd minute, Nees made a double substitution, putting Tawanda Maswanhise and Terrence Dzvukamanja into play for Musona and Khama Billiat. Even though Jordan Zemura did not score, he stood out as the best player on the field for Zimbabwe, contributing two assists that secured a crucial point for his team.
The draw places Zimbabwe at the bottom of Group C with three points, while Benin ascends to the top with eight points. The Warriors will be eager for a win in their upcoming match on Tuesday against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.
Zimbabwe’s draw against Benin highlighted key moments, including a critical error from goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Despite this setback, the team’s resilience led to a comeback, particularly through the performances of Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona. The outcome positions Zimbabwe in last place in their group, emphasizing the urgency for a victory in their next match against Nigeria.
Original Source: allafrica.com
