Zimbabwe may host their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Kenya at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, as they look to secure their place in the prestigious tournament. The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is exploring the option of using the venue for next month’s decisive Group J match, with other locations, such as Johannesburg, still under consideration.
Previously, Zimbabwe used Orlando Stadium in Soweto for both legs of their encounter against Namibia in October, securing a 3-1 victory in the second leg in front of a sizable crowd.
While ZIFA had initially planned to return to Orlando Stadium for the critical showdown with Kenya’s Harambee Stars, Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees reportedly favors the Peter Mokaba Stadium due to its superior playing surface.
The final decision on the venue has yet to be made, but Nees’ preference for the Polokwane stadium could influence the choice.
Peter Mokaba Stadium, which is home to Polokwane City, boasts better pitch conditions compared to the other options, which could play a crucial role in such a high-stakes fixture.
Zimbabwe’s first meeting with Kenya in the qualifiers ended in a goalless draw.
However, Nees’ team will be targeting a victory in the return leg to cement their place in the 2025 AFCON finals, which will take place in Morocco.
A win would guarantee Zimbabwe’s qualification, as they currently sit second in Group J with eight points, two points behind group leaders Cameroon, who have already secured their spot in the tournament.
Kenya, on the other hand, trails Zimbabwe by four points and will be desperate for a win to keep their hopes alive.
With two matches left in the group stage, Zimbabwe is in a strong position to join Cameroon at the AFCON finals.
A victory over Kenya would give the Warriors an unassailable lead over their East African rivals, making the final game in the group a mere formality.
ZIFA’s decision on the venue will be crucial for Zimbabwe’s preparations.
While Orlando Stadium provided strong home support in the previous matches, Polokwane’s better playing conditions could give the Warriors an edge in the all-important clash.
As the countdown to the match continues, all eyes will be on Zimbabwe to see whether they can capitalize on their strong position and make their way to the AFCON finals for the first time since 2019.
For Kenya, the stakes are equally high, as they look to spoil Zimbabwe’s plans and revive their own fading qualification hopes.
