The Warriors are confident of making a positive start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign when they face Sierra Leone in Morocco today.
The Group E encounter will be coach Ramon Catala’s first assignment since his appointment last month, with Zimbabwe facing Sierra Leone for the first time in international football.
Warriors midfielder Andy Rinomhota is back in the fold and believes the blend of youth and experience in the squad can deliver a positive result.
“It’s good to be back after missing out. We are looking forward to a good start. It’s going to be a quick turnaround, but the camaraderie among the players in camp has so far been good. The relationship between the coaches and players is high, and I think it will work out well. I will provide guidance to the younger lads who are new to the team. I will pass the knowledge on the pitch and off the pitch,” he said.
Sierra Leone go into the match ranked higher than Zimbabwe on the FIFA rankings, with the Leone Stars sitting 122nd compared to the Warriors in 130th place.
However, Zimbabwe have greater AFCON experience, having featured at the continental tournament six times, compared with Sierra Leone’s three appearances.
Recent form also offers encouragement to the Warriors, who have won three of their last five matches, while Sierra Leone have recorded two victories in their last five outings.
The other Group E encounter on Thursday will see the Democratic Republic of Congo host Equatorial Guinea.
The Warriors will then return home to face the DRC at the National Sports Stadium on Monday.
