Zimbabwe’s preparations for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Benin Republic have been dealt a major setback after captain Marvelous Nakamba was ruled out due to injury.
According to The Herald, head coach Michael Nees has replaced the midfielder with Richard Hachiro.
Nakamba’s absence is a significant loss for the Warriors. As captain, his leadership and experience have been instrumental for the team, both on and off the pitch.
Now, Zimbabwe faces the challenge of adjusting their setup without their most experienced player.
In response to Nakamba’s withdrawal, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has drafted in Hachiro, who was initially on the standby list.
Hachiro last featured for the national team during their successful AFCON 2025 qualification campaign under Nees.
The midfielder joined a group of home-based players, including goalkeeper Martin Mapisa, Emmanuel Jalai, and Isheanesu Mauchi, as they departed for South Africa on Sunday.
They were also accompanied by six Scotland-based players, led by former Kaizer Chiefs star Khama Billiat, Walter Musona, and Godknows Murwira.
The first batch of 10 home-based players have now arrived in Durban.
Nees plans to hold a three-day training camp before Zimbabwe’s fixture against Benin at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday.
The Warriors will then travel to Uyo for a high-stakes clash against the Super Eagles on March 25.
While Zimbabwe sits bottom of Group C with just two points, Nigeria is only slightly ahead in fifth place with three points.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, appointed earlier this year, will be looking to take advantage of Zimbabwe’s setback and guide Nigeria to their first win in the qualifiers.
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