By Ziyah News Sport Reporter
Harare — Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees has named a squad that blends seasoned stars with youthful prospects as the Warriors gear up for their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda in September.
The headline news is the return of Marvelous Nakamba, Tawanda Chirewa, and skipper Knowledge Musona, who were unavailable during the last international window. Their comeback injects both leadership and technical quality into a side aiming to find consistency on the road to the global finals.
Emerging talents have also been handed the stage. Bill Antonio, Sean Fusire, and Jonah Fabisch are joined by goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze, all of whom impressed in recent friendlies. COSAFA Cup standout Prosper Padero has been rewarded with his first World Cup qualifying call-up.
However, the Warriors will have to do without veteran forward Khama Billiat, ruled out through injury in a blow to the team’s attacking depth. Goalkeeper Marley Tavaziva also misses out, though defender Brandon Galloway makes a welcome return after recovering from a knock.
With experience anchoring the spine of the team and new faces eager to prove themselves, Nees’s selection underscores his strategy of building a competitive mix for both present results and future growth.