Marinica: Zimbabwe should focus on AFCON, not noise

Zimbabwe coach Marian ‘Mario’ Marinica has sent a call to all fans and stakeholders to forget the ‘noise’ and unite for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) cause.

The Romania-born tactician made the call as Zimbabwe prepare to compete at the continental finals scheduled for Morocco from December 21 to January 18 2026.

“I would like to thank them for the support so far, and I would like as much as possible urge them to stay behind us, forget the noise what it is,” he said.

“Let us focus together to achieve what we can. We will give you 100 percent what we can on the pitch.”

What Marinica expects at AFCON

The Englishman said called for the same level of support his team enjoyed in November during pre-AFCON camp training in Qatar.

“We want as much as possible support us 100 percent. We are the Warriors but also we want the fans to be the warriors supporting the Warriors. I was extremely impressed in Qatar to see so many people,” the coach said.

During the camp, Zimbabwe lost 3-1 to Algeria then beat Qatar 2-1.

Marinica’s charges will line up against Angola, South Africa and Egypt at AFCON.