Zimbabwe unveil squad for Unity Cup clash against Nigeria

Zimbabwe have officially announced a strong 24-man squad for the 2026 Unity Cup as the Warriors prepare for a blockbuster opening fixture against defending champions Nigeria.

Head coach Kaitano Tembo has assembled a squad packed with foreign-based talent, highlighting Zimbabwe’s ambition to challenge for the title in the four-nation competition.

The Warriors will head into the tournament with confidence, relying on the experience of several Europe-based stars alongside exciting emerging talents spread across Africa and beyond.

Leading the squad is experienced midfielder Marvelous Nakamba, who is expected to play a crucial leadership role in the middle of the park. The former Aston Villa midfielder will be joined by in-form midfielder Marshall Munetsi, whose energy and versatility could prove vital against Nigeria’s powerful setup.

Zimbabwe’s defensive unit also boasts quality and international experience, with Jordan Zemura expected to be one of the standout names in the squad. The Udinese defender adds top-level European pedigree to the Warriors’ backline.

In attack, the Warriors will look to experienced forward Tino Kadewere to spearhead the frontline alongside promising talents such as Tawanda Maswanhise and Prince Dube.

The inclusion of several young players based in England and across Europe signals Zimbabwe’s continued focus on blending youth with experience as they seek to compete with some of Africa’s strongest national teams.

The Warriors face a difficult opening encounter against a star-studded Nigerian side, but Tembo’s men will believe they possess enough quality to make a strong statement in the tournament.

Zimbabwe Squad for the 2026 Unity Cup

Goalkeepers: Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Future Sibanda (ZPC Kariba), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi)

Defenders: Jordan Zemura (Udinese), Munashe Garananga (Hibernian), Corbin Mthunzi (Ipswich Town), Shane Maroodza (FK Sarajevo), Gerald Takwara (Al-Ittihad Misurata), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Emmanuel Jalai (Durban City), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday)

Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Sheffield Wednesday), Marshall Munetsi (Paris FC), Mongameli Tshuma (Highlanders), Aboubacar Moffat (Scottland FC), Jonah Fabisch (Erzgebirge Aue), Tawanda Chirewa (Barnsley)

Forwards: Tino Kadewere (Aris Thessaloniki), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Junior Zindoga (TS Galaxy), Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen), Daniel Msendami (Orlando Pirates)