Namibia and Zimbabwe Aim for Redemption in AFCON Qualifiers

Namibia and Zimbabwe are scheduled to compete in the AFCON qualifiers on October 10, 2024. Namibia seeks to recover from two losses, while Zimbabwe looks to secure their first win after two draws. The match at Orlando Stadium will be held behind closed doors, although the return leg on October 14 will allow fans. Key players will be missing for both teams due to injuries, yet Namibia historically leads in their encounters against Zimbabwe.

Namibia and Zimbabwe are poised to seek vital victories as they face off in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. This crucial Group J encounter will take place at the Orlando Stadium on Thursday, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM CAT. Namibia has embarked on their AFCON qualification campaign on a disappointing note, suffering two successive defeats against Cameroon and Kenya. Following a 2-1 loss to Kenya on September 10 at the same venue, Namibia currently finds themselves in fourth place in Group J. Conversely, Zimbabwe has had a marginally better start to their AFCON qualification, though they, too, are yet to secure a win in their initial matches. Under the management of Micheal Nees, the Warriors have drawn both of their opening games, which ended in 0-0 ties against Kenya and Cameroon. Presently, Zimbabwe occupies the third position in Group J, trailing leaders Kenya and Cameroon by two points. In terms of logistics, the match on Thursday will be held behind closed doors, a decision made at Namibia’s request. The Zimbabwean Football Association (ZIFA) formally announced, “Please note that the Warriors’ Thursday game vs Namibia will be played behind closed doors at Namibia’s behest. A request has been made for all fans not to make their way to Orlando Stadium. However, our home game on Monday 14 October is open to all.” In the lead-up to these fixtures, Zimbabwe will be without the services of Tino Kadewere and Tawanda Chirewa, both sidelined due to injuries. However, the team will receive a significant boost with the return of Khama Billiat, a former standout for Mamelodi Sundowns, who recently reversed his international retirement. Furthermore, team captain Marvelous Nakamba will rejoin the squad following his recovery from injury. Namibia’s lineup for the upcoming matches boasts talented players from the Premier Soccer League (PSL), including Deon Hotto, Lloydt Kazapua, and Riaan Hanamub. Coach Collin Benjamin has also included additional talents such as Rewaldo Prins, Petrus Kamati, and Tjahikika Mbakondja. Historically, Namibia has held an advantage over Zimbabwe in their recent encounters, having claimed four victories in their last five meetings. The last time Zimbabwe emerged victorious against Namibia was in 2017, when they registered a 1-0 win during an AFCON match at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.

The Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers serve as a critical pathway for national teams to secure their participation in this prestigious continental tournament. Countries strive to improve their rankings and ensure a spot in the tournament by competing vigorously in their respective groups. Namibia and Zimbabwe, both with rich footballing traditions, are looking to revive their campaigns after mixed results. This context not only highlights the importance of the upcoming match but also underlines the competitive spirit prevalent within Group J of the qualifiers.

In summary, Namibia and Zimbabwe are preparing for a significant clash in the AFCON qualifiers, each team in search of their first victory. With Namibia under pressure after consecutive defeats and Zimbabwe hoping to break the deadlock of draws, the match promises to be a tightly contested affair. The absence of key players for Zimbabwe due to injuries could prove pivotal, while Namibia looks to capitalize on their recent strong form against the Warriors. Both teams are keen to claim the crucial points needed to enhance their standings in the group and maintain their aspirations for qualification.

Original Source: africanfootball.com