Five PSL players named in Zimbabwe squad for 2027 AFCON qualifiers

AmaZulu forward Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya has been included in Zimbabwe’s provisional squad for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Sierra Leone and DR Congo.

Ngwenya’s selection follows an outstanding start to the 2026/27 season. The AmaZulu player has scored eight goals in six games for Usuthu, who are currently fourth in the Betway Premiership.

His form has earned him a place in a Zimbabwe squad that also includes four other players based in South Africa. Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Divine Lunga, TS Galaxy player Junior Zindoga and Orlando Pirates’ Daniel Msendami have all been called up.

The group represents a strong South African presence in Zimbabwe’s provisional selection, with five players from the Betway Premiership involved as the Warriors begin their campaign to reach the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The fixtures against Sierra Leone and DR Congo will also mark Ramon Catala’s first game in charge of Zimbabwe. The new head coach will oversee the Warriors as they attempt to qualify for successive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Zimbabwe returned to international football after a period of exile and will now be seeking back-to-back appearances at the continental finals. The opening qualifiers therefore provide Catala with his first opportunity to lead the national team in a competitive campaign.

Ngwenya’s inclusion is the most notable call-up among the South Africa-based contingent after his prolific opening to the domestic season. His eight goals in six appearances for AmaZulu have come while the club sit fourth in the Betway Premiership.

Chipezeze’s selection adds another Magesi player to the squad, while Lunga’s call-up maintains a link with Mamelodi Sundowns. Zindoga will represent TS Galaxy in the provisional group, and Msendami will join the Warriors from Orlando Pirates.

The squad remains provisional ahead of Zimbabwe’s first qualifying matches. The Warriors will face Sierra Leone and DR Congo as they begin their route towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Related coverage associated with the announcement includes the headline “Zimbabwe Announce European Coach”, while another item states that a Zimbabwe international has completed a move to the Premier Soccer League.

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