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The Mighty Warriors are poised and prepared as they set out to face Angola in the highly anticipated 2026 AWCON qualifiers. The first leg will take place on February 20 in Luanda, Angola, followed by an exciting home match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in South Africa on February 26.
Head coach Sithethelelwe Sibanda expressed confidence in her squad, stating, “Tactically we are ready for the game.” The enthusiasm of both the team and their supporters is electric, and they carry the hopes of a nation on their shoulders.
In a show of solidarity, Honourable Kirsty Coventry, the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, made a special visit to the Mighty Warriors on February 16. Accompanied by Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya, Acting Permanent Secretary Eugenia Chidhakwa, and Acting SRC Director General Sebastian Garikai, Coventry’s visit bolstered the morale of the athletes. During her visit, she was warmly welcomed by ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi and his board.
Minister Coventry was impressed by the spirits in camp and reiterated that both she and the nation are fully behind the team, wishing them success in their upcoming matches.
The ZIFA executive board organized a send-off dinner to celebrate the Mighty Warriors before their journey to Angola, a gesture of support to ensure the team carries a sense of unity and purpose. Notably, Israel-based captain Emmaculate Msipa and Tanzania-based midfielder Danai Bhobho have already joined their teammates in Angola, while Australia-based Yolanda Kanyai is expected to arrive today.
Adding to the support, Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Angola, Thando Madzvamuse, paid a courtesy visit to the Mighty Warriors as they finalized their preparations for this crucial AWCON qualifier, scheduled to take place at Estádio 22 de Junho.
With the entire nation rallying behind them, the Mighty Warriors not only compete for victory but also for national pride. The stage is set, the energy is high, and fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling showdown on the pitch!
