Zimbabwe sack head coach Michael Nees ahead of AFCON finals

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has sacked head coach Michael Nees barely two months before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco, AfricaSoccer.com can confirm 

The decision comes after a string of poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where the Warriors failed to register a single win.

The 58-year-old German tactician, who was appointed in August 2024, had been in charge for 14 months.

Despite successfully steering Zimbabwe to qualification for the continental tournament, his overall record has been far from impressive – managing only two wins, five draws, and seven defeats in 14 matches.

Under Nees, Zimbabwe endured a frustrating World Cup qualifying campaign, drawing three and losing three of their six matches to finish bottom of their group.

The dismal run ultimately cost him his job, with ZIFA stating that the decision was made in the best interest of the national team as preparations intensify for the AFCON finals.

“While we acknowledge coach Nees’ contribution to our qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations, recent performances have not met expectations. We believe new leadership is needed to inspire confidence and deliver better results,” a ZIFA statement read.

The Warriors now face a race against time to appoint a replacement before their opening Group B match against Egypt on December 22 in Agadir.

Zimbabwe are also drawn alongside South Africa and Angola in what promises to be a competitive group.

Nees, who previously coached Rwanda and Seychelles, and served as a technical director in Israel and Kosovo, leaves with questions over Zimbabwe’s readiness for the continental showpiece.

His departure adds fresh uncertainty, but ZIFA will be hoping a new appointment can rally the squad and restore belief before they head to Morocco.