Nakamba says Zimbabwe have good chance at AFCON

Zimbabwe national team captain Marvelous Nakamba has backed the Warriors to surprise many at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The 35th edition of the AFCON organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), will get underway on December 12. The Warriors have been drawn in a competitive Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and South Africa.

Heading into the AFCON, Zimbabwe have never made it past the group stage. They will make their sixth appearance in Morocco hoping to break their group stage curse and advance into the knockout stages.

According to Nakamba, who plays as a defensive midfielder for EFL League One club Luton Town, the Warriors stand a chance of making it past their group.

Zimbabwe have to believe in themselves

“That’s the main focus also for us as football players, we are going there to compete. So, I think we just have to believe in ourselves, to give everything with the support also of the new guys,” said Nakamba as quoted by SABC Sports.

“I think it has been fantastic supporting the team, now it’s up to the players to push each other and fight for the flag of the country.”

On facing Egypt in their opener, he said: “Yeah, of course I think football is about competition, I think each and every group is tough. Of course we are playing against Egypt, first match, Angola and SA but I think we just have to focus on ourselves.

“We have a great game plan, we have to push each other and fight for the country.”

Nakamba remained adamant they are positive in camp. He said: “So far so good, I think we are pushing each other in camp. The morale has been high, everyone is focused and hopefully we go there for a positive cause.”

The Warriors, who will be based in Marrakech, will kick off their campaign against Pharaohs next Monday at the 45,000-capacity Grand Stade d’Agadir in the coastal city of Agadir.

Their matchday two will be against Angola on Boxing Day at the Grand Stade de Marrakech before concluding the group stage against South Africa at the same venue on December 29.