World Cup Qualifying: Zimbabwe can’t drop points – Arubi

Zimbabwe’s first-choice goalkeeper Washington Arubi says they cannot afford to drop points at this decisive phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification race for Africa.

The Marumo Gallants man said this while reflecting on Zimbabwe’s back-to-back Group C matches against Benin and Rwanda on Friday and Tuesday respectively.

Arubi spoke about the mood in camp ahead of the first game against Benin in Ivory Coast, how new players are jelling in alongside the established ones.

“We are motivated,” he said. “Everyone is ready. We can see that the boys are ready to fight. I am impressed because they are gelling with us, the old guys. We just have to try to push them and motivate them not to be scared because this is the big stage. We will be there for them and each other as a team so that we can get out with the maximum points because this is the big stage.”

The Warriors’ number one also highlighted their approach to the two games, stressing the importance of taking one game at a time starting with Rwanda.

“For now, we are focusing on Benin because if we think about the next game, we will confuse ourselves. We need to come out with the maximum points. Our preparations will determine how we will get maximum points. We don’t want to drop points especially at this stage of time,” the keeper explained.

Arubi also sent a special message directed at the Warriors fans who are desperate for their team to make a maiden World Cup qualification.

“I want to tell the fans that they must keep supporting us even though they put pressure on us. We love the pressure and we will take all the negatives,” he said.

The Warriors need to win both games to stand a chance of sneaking through to the World Cup finals.

Benin lead the group with eight points while Zimbabwe occupy second place with four points.

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