Zimbabwe name final squad for Equatorial Guinea AFCON qualifying double-header

Zimbabwe have named a 24-man squad for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Equatorial Guinea.

Head coach Ramon Catala has selected a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents as the Warriors prepare for two important Group B encounters this month.

Zimbabwe will face Equatorial Guinea in back-to-back fixtures, with the two matches offering an opportunity to strengthen their qualification prospects.

The Warriors have collected three points from their opening two matches, leaving them with work to do as they seek to secure a place at the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in 2027.

The squad is made up of four goalkeepers, eight defenders, six midfielders and six forwards.

Martin Mapisa of Hardrock, Future Sibanda of ZPC Kariba, Nelson Chadya of Scotland and Aaron Ngwenya of Highlanders have been selected as the goalkeepers.

In defence, Watford’s Jordan Zemura headlines the selection alongside Corbin Mthunzi, Tinotenda Muringai, Kelvin Moyo, Peter Muduhwa, Emmanuel Jalai, Sean Fusire and Shane Maroodza.

The midfield department features experienced campaigners Marshall Munetsi of Wolves and Marvellous Nakamba of Panetolikos.

They are joined by Abubakar Moffat, Mthokozisi Msebe, Andy Rinomhota of Reading and Jonah Fabisch of Golden Arrows.

Up front, Wolves forward Tawanda Chirewa and Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise are among the attacking options.

The other forwards are Bill Antonio of KV Mechelen, Daniel Msendami of Marumo Gallants, Tinotenda Kadewere of Aris Salonica and Thando Ngwenya of AmaZulu.

The upcoming double-header represents an important test for Catala’s side as they attempt to improve their position in the qualifying group and keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 AFCON alive.

Zimbabwe will be hoping to make home advantage count in the first encounter before travelling for the return fixture against Equatorial Guinea.