Zimbabwe and Nigeria Prepare for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Zimbabwe has called up a 23-man squad for World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria, including key players like Knowledge Musona and Marshall Munetsi. Nigeria’s squad features Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong as they aim to improve their standings. Both teams are keen on securing points in this critical stage of the qualifiers.

Zimbabwe has announced a 23-man squad for their pivotal matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria later this month, as reported by Soccernet.ng. The Warriors are currently at the bottom of Group C, having secured only two points from two games, and aim to revive their qualification hopes with a match against Benin on March 20, followed by Nigeria five days later.

Coach Michael Nees has reinstated former captain Knowledge Musona, who currently plays for Saudi club Al-Okhdood. The squad also includes players from various European leagues and South Africa, like Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Marshall Munetsi and Cardiff City’s Andy Rinomhota, bolstering their midfield.

In the defense, notable players such as Jordan Zemura from Udinese, Munashe Garananga of FC Copenhagen, and Divine Lunga from Mamelodi Sundowns have been selected. Goalkeeping options feature Brentford’s Marley Tavaziva, alongside Washington Arubi from Marumo Gallants and Martin Mapisa of MWOS FC. The attack is reinforced with players like Prince Dube of Young Africans and Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise.

Zimbabwe’s squad further includes Gerald Takwara, Isheanes Mauchi, Peter Muduhwa, Godknows Murwira, and more, with preparations focused on upcoming fixtures. They will initially face Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, followed by a match against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on March 25.

On the other hand, Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has revealed his squad, featuring top players like Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, and Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. Captain William Troost-Ekong and several English Premier League players, including Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, are also included, as the Super Eagles seek to improve their position in Group C with three points.

Both teams are urgently vying for points, and their upcoming matches are crucial for shaping their paths toward the 2026 World Cup qualification, as the competition heats up in this decisive stage of the qualifiers.

In conclusion, both Zimbabwe and Nigeria have assembled strong squads for their crucial World Cup qualifying matches. Zimbabwe seeks to gain momentum against Benin and Nigeria after a disappointing start, while Nigeria aims to enhance their standings in Group C. The outcome of these matches holds significant implications for both teams’ prospects in the race for World Cup qualification. It is evident that each team is committed to securing vital points as the qualifiers progress.

Original Source: soccernet.ng