Mnangagwa Announces $150,000 Bonus for Zimbabwe Warriors Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged a US$150,000 bonus for each victory by Zimbabwe’s Warriors in their FIFA World Cup qualifiers. If they win both matches, they could receive US$300,000 on top of a previously allocated US$1 million for AFCON. The team faces challenges due to a lack of a FIFA-approved stadium, as they play home fixtures in South Africa. ZIFA’s Nqobile Magwizi highlighted the government’s commitment to football development in Zimbabwe.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently pledged a bonus of US$150,000 for each victory attained by Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria. Should the team secure victories in both matches on March 20 and March 25, they will receive a cumulative total of US$300,000, alongside an already promised US$1 million for their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.

This financial support is especially crucial as Zimbabwe faces hurdles in hosting international matches due to a lack of a FIFA-approved stadium. Currently, the Warriors are required to play their home matches in South Africa, as the National Sports Stadium in Harare remains under renovation since 2020. This venue, deemed the closest to acceptable international standards, was flagged by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for deficiencies.

The announcement of this pledge was made by Nqobile Magwizi, the president of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), who did not clarify whether these funds would originate from the government or from Mnangagwa’s personal finances. Magwizi emphasized that this support represents the government’s commitment to nurturing football in Zimbabwe and encourages national pride as the Warriors pursue World Cup qualification.

The nation is united in its support for the Warriors, who are striving to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup. The calls for solidarity highlight the importance of the team in embodying the hopes and aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe as they compete on the international stage.

In summary, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has committed US$150,000 per victory for the Warriors, potentially totaling US$300,000 for wins in their upcoming qualifiers. This financial backing aims to support the team’s World Cup aspirations amid challenges in hosting home games. The nation rallies behind the team, emphasizing the importance of unity and support as they strive for a historic qualification.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com