Zimbabwe national team coach Marian “Mario” Marinica believes the fine margins that eliminated the Warriors at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco underline the urgent need to strengthen the domestic Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Zimbabwe bowed out at the group stage for the sixth consecutive AFCON campaign after defeats to Egypt and South Africa, and a draw against Angola in Group B. The Warriors finished with one point, missing out on the round of 16 by the slimmest of margins.
Their exit was sealed in heartbreaking fashion in the final group match against South Africa in Marrakech, where a late penalty turned a potential 2–2 draw into a 3–2 defeat. Captain Marvelous Nakamba conceded the spot-kick after handling the ball in a desperate defensive intervention, with VAR confirming the decision. Oswin Appollis converted to end Zimbabwe’s hopes.
Despite the disappointment, the tournament offered signs of progress. For the first time since their AFCON debut in 2004, the Warriors scored in every match at the finals. It also marked their best scoring run in over a decade, finding the net in five successive games.
However, defensive lapses proved costly, a concern Marinica has openly acknowledged just over a month into his tenure. While addressing those issues, the Romanian coach said the broader challenge lies within the local league’s competitiveness.
Marinica pointed to South Africa’s success, noting that Bafana Bafana rely heavily on locally-based players who compete regularly in elite continental club competitions. That same core helped South Africa top their 2026 World Cup qualifying group, in which Zimbabwe finished bottom.
“The team is improving and the attitude has changed,” Marinica said. “We are scoring goals, creating chances and playing with belief. The mentality is different from before.”
He added that long-term success will depend on groundwork at grassroots and league level, arguing that players must be better prepared for international football before reaching the national team.
“Our league must produce players who are ready for this level,” he said. “In South Africa, players come straight from local clubs that play in the CAF Champions League and compete consistently at a high level.”
Marinica believes stability within the PSL is key, suggesting Zimbabwe should aim to become a destination for talent rather than a constant exporter.
“If we can build a stable league that attracts players instead of losing them, our clubs can compete for trophies and the national team will benefit. That’s how rebuilding truly starts,” he said.
With the 2027 AFCON qualifiers beginning in March, Marinica wants preparations to start immediately. He expressed satisfaction with the backing he has received from ZIFA and confidence that the team is moving in the right direction.
The next Africa Cup of Nations will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and will be the last edition held every two years before the tournament shifts to a four-year cycle.
“We have a short turnaround and we need results quickly,” Marinica said. “But I believe the association understands the process and we are on a good path.”
Zimbabwe also drew praise off the field in Morocco, earning admiration for their organisation and presentation. Support from fans, locals and the diaspora was strong, with replica jerseys in high demand.
Ultimately, the Warriors came closer than ever to reaching the knockout stage under a new coach — proof, Marinica believes, that with a stronger domestic foundation, Zimbabwe can soon turn promise into progress.
Source – Herald
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