2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Billiat out, Musona headlines Zimbabwe squad

There are no major surprises in Zimbabwe’s Senior National Football Team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

 

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Veteran Knowledge Musona has earned his place in the 24-member party unveiled on Thursday, while injured Khama Billiat is out. The Warriors face Benin on September 4, 2025, followed by a meeting with Rwanda four days later. Both matches are for Group C.

Musona has been joined by other well-known and established stars, notably Luton FC’s midfielder Marvelous Nakamba and his Wolverhampton Wanderers counterpart Marshall Munetsi.

The duo has been joined by other well-known and established stars, notably Luton Town midfielder Marvelous Nakamba and his Wolverhampton Wanderers counterpart Marshall Munetsi.

There is a fair share of players from South Africa, including first-choice veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi and Mamelodi Sundowns’ resurgent left-back Divine Lunga.

While Marumo Gallants custodian Arubi remains Zimbabwe’s number one, he can always expect pressure from his deputy Elvis Chipezeze. The keeper based at Magesi FC is yet another top player that coach Michael Nees has drafted into the squad.

The Warriors need to win both games to stand a chance of sneaking through to the World Cup finals. A nine-point gap separates Zimbabwe from Group C leaders South Africa, who are currently on thirteen points, with Rwanda and Benin each on eight points in second place. Nigeria, on seven points, lost points to the Warriors at home but are expected to push for qualification as well.

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