By Arthur Muoni
Warriors head coach, Michael Nees has named his Warriors squad to do duty in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria on the 20th and 25th of March respectively.
The Warriors are set to host Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium in South Africa before traveling to Nigeria for a date with the Super Eagles five days later. Currently, Zimbabwe are rooted at the bottom of Group C with just two points from four matches.
Social media reactions have been critical of Nees’ decision to include six Scottland FC players namely Khama Billiat, Godknows Murwira, Mthokozisi Msebe, Tymon Machope, Walter Musona, and Peter Muduhwa. However, it’s essential to consider the context behind it.
These players, except Mthokozisi Msibi and Peter Muduhwa were an integral part of the team that qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last year. It raises a crucial question: should they be excluded from the national squad simply because they joined Scottland FC? Nees has consistently emphasized the importance of loyalty and character in his selections.
To turn his back on players who have proven their worth and contributed to past successes would contradict his principles.It is noteworthy that these players made an impression on the coach before they joined the new moneybags of Zimbabwe’s Premier Soccer League
Nees has also justified his selections by noting that Scottland FC had better preseason training in Zambia, which included access to excellent facilities, gym resources, and thorough medical check-ups. In his statement, Nees said, “They (Scottland) had a good pre-season in Zambia, two or three weeks, Simba Bhora, and they were also in South Africa.”
Given the circumstances and the context behind the selection, it is a bit harsh to ctiticize the coach which is not what the team need right now.
Critics of the selection have argued that choosing players from clubs that have just started their season is unjust. However, the rigorous preparation Scottland FC has undertaken gives these players a competitive edge. Their readiness for international duty is by quality training and support they receive.
Moreover, selecting more players from one team is not something new.South Africa’s national team coach, Hugo Broos once called up nine players from Mamelodi Sundowns, a club currently excelling in the league. While Sundowns may be ahead of Scottland FC, both clubs offer high-quality training facilities and comprehensive preparation that benefit player development.
In selecting a competitive national squad, it’s crucial to consider not only the individual talents of players but also the collective preparation they bring from their clubs.Scottland assembled a squad made up of the best local talent, it was obvious the team would contribute a huge chunk of the locally based players to the Warriors set-up.
Ultimately, while the debate around club loyalty and selection criteria will persist, the focus should remain on fielding the best possible team. As the Warriors prepare for matches against Benin and Nigeria, the rallying call should be around how to give the team the best possible support to revive a faltering World Cup campaign.Its time to trade club loyalty for the green and gold of the Warriors.