Namibia Set to Clash with Zimbabwe in Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers

With the third round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers set to begin this week, Namibia and Zimbabwe will engage in a highly anticipated Group J matchup at Orlando Stadium on Thursday afternoon. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 PM Central Africa Time (CAT), which corresponds to GMT+2.

Namibia’s journey in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying rounds has been challenging so far, marked by two consecutive losses to Cameroon and Kenya. Following a 2-1 defeat to Kenya at Orlando Stadium on September 10, Namibia, under coach Collin Benjamin, finds itself in fourth position within Group J.

In contrast, Zimbabwe has experienced slightly more favorable outcomes but still seeks its first victory. Led by coach Micheal Nees, the team has managed two scoreless draws against Kenya and Cameroon. Presently, Zimbabwe occupies the third spot in Group J, trailing two points behind both Cameroon and group leaders Kenya.

In regards to the match venue, the encounter between Namibia and Zimbabwe will be held behind closed doors at Namibia’s request. “Please note that the Warriors’ Thursday game against Namibia will be played behind closed doors,” the Zimbabwean Football Association said in a statement. “A request has been made for all fans not to make their way to Orlando Stadium. However, our home game on Monday, 14 October is open to all.”

The Zimbabwean Football Association announced that Tino Kadewere and Tawanda Chirewa will not participate in the upcoming matches due to calf and thigh injuries, respectively. Nonetheless, Zimbabwe’s squad will be strengthened by the return of former Mamelodi Sundowns player Khama Billiat, as well as the team captain Marvelous Nakamba, both of whom are making a return to the national side after overcoming injuries.

Namibia’s squad will feature prominent PSL talents such as Deon Hotto, Lloydt Kazapua, and Riaan Hanamub. Other players like Rewaldo Prins, Petrus Kamati, and Tjahikika Mbakondja are also part of Benjamin’s lineup.

Historically, Namibia has held an advantage over Zimbabwe in their encounters, securing four wins in their last five meetings across various competitions. The last victory for Zimbabwe against Namibia dates back to 2017, with a 1-0 win in an Africa Cup of Nations match held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.