Namibia vs Zimbabwe Clash in Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers

In an upcoming clash of the Africa Cup of Nations Qualification, Namibia is set to face Zimbabwe at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday. The match, which marks the opening of round three of the 2025 qualifiers, will be held without spectators as per Namibia’s request, despite the proximity of their citizens residing in South Africa due to recent restrictions.

This situation arises as Namibia was compelled to move their home games to South Africa after venues in Windhoek failed to meet the Confederation of African Football‘s standards for World Cup qualifiers. The Brave Warriors are encountering a crucial moment in their campaign, following their remarkable feat of reaching the last 16 at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, only to be eliminated by Angola.

Currently at the bottom of Group J without any accumulated points, Namibia is striving to reverse their fortunes. They began their campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon and subsequently lost to Kenya in the second match, which both took place at the same venue.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is hoping to improve their performance following a mixed return to international football after a FIFA-imposed suspension was lifted last year. The Warriors head into this match aiming to avoid a fourth consecutive game without a win, a streak that includes a defeat to Kenya and draws against both Kenya and Cameroon.

Addressing Zimbabwe’s challenges, the newly appointed head coach must overcome their goal-scoring drought, having not scored since his tenure began. However, he can rely on the experience of 10 squad members currently active in South Africa’s Premier Soccer League.

Namibia’s squad for the qualifiers sees several South Africa-based players called up, including Orlando Pirates‘ midfielder Deon Hotto and Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Ratanda Mbazuvara. For Zimbabwe, captain Knowledge Musona returns following a knee injury and surgical recovery, with PSL veteran Khama Billiat making a comeback from international retirement.

Both teams, desperate for victory, might adopt aggressive strategies, leading to a potentially entertaining match. The squads’ previous encounters favor Namibia, having won their last six meetings against Zimbabwe.