Nakamba Opens Up on AFCON Heartbreak: “I Am Slipping Into Depression”

Zimbabwe captain Marvelous Nakamba has laid bare the emotional toll of the Warriors’ painful Africa Cup of Nations exit, admitting the moment has left him struggling mentally and emotionally.

For nearly a week after Zimbabwe’s dramatic defeat to South Africa, Nakamba says sleep has eluded him. One defining incident — a late handball that resulted in a decisive penalty — continues to replay in his mind.

Renowned for his quiet efficiency and leadership in midfield, Nakamba has long been the engine that keeps Zimbabwe balanced. But at the Grande Stade de Marrakech, a split-second decision proved costly.

With the Warriors having twice fought back against Bafana Bafana and pushing for a crucial win that could have secured a historic Round of 16 berth, the match pivoted with just ten minutes remaining. A desperate defensive intervention by Nakamba saw the ball brush his hand before he cleared it. The referee initially awarded a corner, but VAR review overturned the decision, ruling it a handball.

South Africa’s Oswin Appollis converted from the spot, extinguishing Zimbabwe’s hopes.

The aftermath was swift and unforgiving. Fans vented their anguish on social media, with Nakamba, Divine Lunga and goalkeeper Washington Arubi bearing the brunt of the blame — particularly after a second goal conceded shortly after halftime.

Football passion runs deep in Zimbabwe, and Nakamba understands that history. He recalls how a missed chance by Wilfred Mugeyi during Zimbabwe’s AFCON debut in 2004 became part of football folklore — a reminder of how moments linger for generations.

 

After the final whistle in Marrakech, Nakamba retreated to the dressing room in tears. Despite teammates’ attempts to console him, the weight of responsibility proved overwhelming.

 

“I take full responsibility,” he said quietly later that evening. “If there is anyone I never want to disappoint, it is Zimbabweans. Everything I do in football is to make them proud, and today I failed them.”

 

The 29-year-old admitted the incident has taken a heavy psychological toll.

 

“I am truly sorry. I don’t even know how to explain it properly. But I feel like I am slowly slipping into depression because of what happened.”

 

Nakamba explained that his action was purely instinctive.

 

“I won’t defend myself. That would be wrong. I thought I was the last man and believed the ball was heading straight for goal. I went down to head it clear, but the pace caught me off guard and I handled it unintentionally.”

 

He revealed that Arubi immediately sensed the danger.

 

“He told me calmly, ‘Marve, you handled the ball. We’re in trouble.’ That’s when it really hit me.”

 

Despite reminders of other missed opportunities — including clear chances squandered by Macaulay Bonne, Tawanda Maswanhise and Tadiwanashe Chakuchichi — Nakamba remained resolute in his self-blame.

 

“That doesn’t matter. I should have handled my moment better. I let down my country, my people and my family.”

 

Later, young Prosper Padera — a product of Nakamba’s foundation tournament — attempted to lift his mentor’s spirits, reflecting the respect Nakamba commands beyond the pitch.

 

Though visibly shaken, the skipper insists his response will not be retreat, but renewed commitment.

 

He believes he still owes the nation — and intends to repay that debt through leadership, resilience and continued service in national colours.

Source – Herald