by Patience Gondo
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has terminated the contract of its Technical Director, Mr. Michael Nees, with immediate effect, following a disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign that left the Warriors without a single victory.
In a statement on Wednesday, dated October 22 2025 ZIFA said the decision was reached by its Executive Committee, marking the end of Nees’ 16-month tenure at the helm of Zimbabwe’s football technical department.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform all stakeholders and members of the public that the Executive Committee has resolved to terminate the contract of Mr. Michael Nees with immediate effect,” ZIFA said in the statement.
ZIFA appreciated Nees’ efforts during his stay in Zimbabwe, acknowledging his role in developing football structures and supporting national programs.
“The Association takes this opportunity to sincerely thank Mr. Nees for his efforts and contributions to Zimbabwean football during his tenure. His dedication to the game and his service to the national structures are appreciated,” ZIFA said.
Nees’ departure comes after Zimbabwe endured a winless 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, where the national team failed to record a single victory in ten matches. Under his guidance, the Warriors scored just three goals while conceding six across six group fixtures, finishing near the bottom of Group C.
The team’s struggles included defeats to Lesotho, Rwanda, Benin, and South Africa, and draws against Nigeria, Benin, and Rwanda, leaving supporters frustrated and morale at an all-time low.
Nees was appointed in July 2024, the German coach had promised to rebuild and modernize Zimbabwe’s style of play, focusing on youth integration and tactical discipline. However, the World Cup campaign highlighted persistent challenges including lack of cohesion, tactical inconsistencies, and low player confidence that left the team without a clear identity on the pitch.
ZIFA further said it remains committed to the ongoing reform and restructuring agenda aimed at strengthening football development programs and restoring the country’s competitive edge in international football.
“ZIFA remains firmly committed to strengthening its technical development programs and ensuring continued progress in all areas of the game in line with its reform and restructuring agenda,” ZIFA said.
The association said details regarding the transition process and interim technical arrangements would be announced in due course.