Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees outlines objectives for friendlies

Warriors: Photo Credit: Zimbabwe Football Association.

Zimbabwe senior national football team coach Michael Nees says he will use the two friendlies the Warriors will play in Morocco to integrate new players into the team.

The Warriors face Burkina Faso on June 6 2025 before taking on Niger four days later during the international FIFA window. The coach said the absence of the key players allows him to try new players and combinations.

“There are new faces and some new players. We want to see how they will jell in. In terms of team development, we want to integrate these new players. We will play with a completely new midfield because all the players are out,” Nees said.

“We have new players who performed well in their clubs. We need to assemble quickly and get a certain harmony. We want to give as many players as possible game time in these friendlies.”

The German has traveled to North Africa without regulars such as defender Jordan Zemura, midfielders Marvelous Nakamba and Marshall Munetsi, and striker Knowledge Musona.

The stars are unavailable due to injuries, some have been rested, and others excused to attend to personal issues.

Nonetheless, Nees has traveled with experienced players such as recalled goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze, first-choice Washington Arubi, and attacker Khama Billiat.