Musona dropped for Zimbabwe’s AFCON clash with South Africa

Zimbabwe national team coach Marian ‘Mario’ Marinica has dropped star striker Knowledge Musona from the starting XI to face South Africa in Morocco on Monday at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

 

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The Group B match of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is expected to ignite old age rivalry between the Southern African neighbours.

The former Kaizer Chiefs forward was expected to get the starting nod considering that he scored on Saturday when Zimbabwe drew one-all with Angola. However, Marinica, a former Black Leopards coach, has pulled a surprise in relegating Musona to the bench.

The Scottland FC veteran has paved the way in the starting XI for Tawanda Maswanhise. Another striker, Macaulay Bonne, has also made way for Marumo Gallants Daniel Msendani in the starting XI.

Interestingly, defender Teenage Hadebe, who was reportedly ruled out of the match through injury, is still part of the playing squad.

The 30-year-old sweeper will start the match from the bench with Brendan Galloway getting the starting nod.

The Warriors anchor the group with one point at par with third-placed Angola. Egypt lead the table on six points followed by South Africa’s three points.

Monday’s game will kick off at 6:00pm Central African time, and will be broadcast on television channels such as for SuperSport channel 222.

Washington Arubi, Gerald Takwara, Munashe Garananga, Marvelous Nakamba, Brendan Galloway, Divine Lunga, Antonio Bill,  Jonah Fabiasch, Prince Dube, Tawanda Maswanishe, Daniel Msendani