Sports

Knowledge Musona Makes International Return for Zimbabwe’s 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

In a significant development for Zimbabwean football, former Warriors captain Knowledge Musona has come out of international retirement and is set to play in Zimbabwe’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.

The 34-year-old forward, who has been a key figure for the national team in the past, brings a wealth of experience to the squad. Over his 12-year career with the Warriors, Musona earned 54 caps and scored 24 goals, becoming one of the nation’s most iconic footballers. He currently plays for Al Okhdood in the Saudi Pro League.

Musona joins a growing list of experienced players making a return to the national team, including Khama Billiat and Washington Arubi, who have all rejoined the squad since Michael Nees took over as head coach.

The full squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, scheduled for Group C against Benin and Nigeria, includes:

Goalkeepers:

  • Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants)
  • Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)
  • Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)

Defenders:

  • Jordan Zemura (Udinese)
  • Divine Lunga (Sundowns)
  • Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC)
  • Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen)
  • Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora)
  • Peter Muduhwa (Scottland)
  • Godknows Murwira (Scottland)
  • Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos)

Midfielders:

  • Marshall Munetsi (Wolves)
  • Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City)
  • Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town)
  • Mthokozisi Msebe (Scottland)
  • Khama Billiat (Scottland)
  • Knowledge Musona (Al-Okhdood)
  • Tawanda Chirewa (Huddersfield Town)

Forwards:

  • Prince Dube (Young Africans)
  • Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell)
  • Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United)
  • Tymon Machope (Scottland)
  • Walter Musona (Scottland)

Musona’s return adds a crucial layer of experience and leadership to the Warriors, who will be hoping to secure important points in their World Cup qualification campaign. The matches against Benin and Nigeria are expected to be pivotal in Zimbabwe’s quest for a place in the 2026 World Cup in North America.

ALSO READ : Kirsty Coventry Provides Update on National Sports Stadium Refurbishment

The Zimbabwe Times

The Zimbabwe Times is a premier digital news platform dedicated to delivering breaking news, in-depth analysis, and comprehensive coverage of events shaping Zimbabwe and the African continent.

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