Warriors Must Rise to the Challenge:Nees

STAFF WRITER

Warriors head coach Michael Nees believes Zimbabwe has been drawn into a balanced yet highly competitive group for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place later this year in Morocco.

The tournament will run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, marking Zimbabwe’s return to Africa’s biggest football stage after missing the previous edition in Côte d’Ivoire due to a FIFA suspension.

Following the official draw in Rabat, Morocco this week, Zimbabwe finds itself in Group X alongside regional rivals South Africa and Angola, as well as continental giants Egypt.

Despite the Warriors being ranked in Pot Four, Nees considers the draw fair and believes the team has what it takes to compete.

“We avoided the host nation, Morocco, but we are still in a very strong group,” Nees said.

“Facing three familiar opponents means there are no secrets. Our matches against Bafana Bafana and Angola will be intense regional derbies, while Egypt, the record champions, will undoubtedly come with their best squad, including world-class talent.”

Zimbabwe’s campaign will kick off against Egypt in Agadir, followed by a crucial clash with Angola, and then a final group-stage showdown against South Africa in Marrakech, where the Warriors will be based for the tournament.

Nees is confident in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.

“We need to be ready from day one,” he emphasized. “With proper preparation, we can take on this challenge. Our goal, like every other team, is to progress beyond the group stage. We respect our opponents, but we also believe in our own abilities.”

He added that the 2025 edition of AFCON promises to set new standards, with world-class facilities and fair conditions for all teams.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, expressed confidence in his team’s chances, citing the presence of world-class stars such as Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s new signing, Omar Marmoush.

“I wish all teams the best in this great competition,” Hassan said.

“As Egypt, we take pride in our record of seven titles. Having a player like Mohamed Salah is a privilege—he is one of the best in the world. Alongside talents like Marmoush, we will be aiming for another championship.”

As anticipation builds for AFCON 2025, Zimbabwe’s Warriors will need to summon their best form to compete with Africa’s elite and make their long-awaited return a memorable one.