Namibia and Zimbabwe are set to face off in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier this Thursday, both aiming to reignite their campaigns after disappointing starts. The Group J encounter, scheduled to kick off at 3:00 PM CAT at Orlando Stadium, could be pivotal in determining the trajectory of both teams as they strive for a place in the 2025 AFCON.
Namibia’s qualification hopes have faltered following two consecutive defeats, first to Cameroon and then to Kenya.
Their most recent setback, a 2-1 loss to Kenya at Orlando Stadium in September, saw them slip to fourth place in Group J. Coach Collin Benjamin will be under pressure to turn things around as his side looks to bounce back from this poor run of form.
Zimbabwe, while in a slightly better position, are still searching for their first win of the campaign.
Under coach Michael Nees, the Warriors have drawn both of their opening matches—goalless stalemates against Kenya and Cameroon—leaving them third in the group, two points behind Cameroon and leaders Kenya.
Despite these draws, Zimbabwe remains optimistic about their chances of climbing the table, starting with the clash against Namibia.
In an unusual decision, Namibia has opted to play Thursday’s game behind closed doors, with no fans in attendance at Orlando Stadium.
The Zimbabwean Football Association confirmed this arrangement in a statement:
“Please note that the Warriors’ Thursday game vs Namibia will be played behind closed doors at Namibia’s behest.
A request has been made for all fans not to make their way to Orlando Stadium.
However, the return fixture on Monday, 14 October, will be open to supporters.
Zimbabwe’s preparations have been marred by injuries to key players.
Tino Kadewere and Tawanda Chirewa will miss both matches due to calf and thigh injuries, respectively.
Despite these setbacks, the Warriors will be boosted by the return of Khama Billiat, who recently came out of international retirement.
Billiat’s presence, alongside captain Marvelous Nakamba, who has recovered from injury, will provide a significant lift to the team’s morale and attacking options.
Namibia, meanwhile, will field a strong squad with several South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) stars, including Deon Hotto, Lloydt Kazapua, and Riaan Hanamub.
Coach Benjamin has also called up promising talents such as Rewaldo Prins, Petrus Kamati, and Tjahikika Mbakondja to bolster their ranks.
Historically, Namibia holds an edge over Zimbabwe, having won four of their last five encounters. Zimbabwe’s last victory against the Brave Warriors came in 2017 when they secured a narrow 1-0 win in an AFCON qualifier in Harare.
However, with so much at stake, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory that could shape their AFCON qualification campaigns moving forward.
The stage is set for a tense and competitive clash as both Namibia and Zimbabwe aim to get their qualifying bids back on track.
