ZIFA Explains Munetsi’s AFCON Omission

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has issued an official statement explaining the non-selection of Warriors vice-captain Marshall Munetsi for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, citing medical, procedural and regulatory considerations.

In a press release, ZIFA said the decision was made in strict compliance with Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations and the FIFA Club Protection Programme (2023–2026). The association confirmed it maintained continuous and documented communication with Munetsi’s club regarding his medical condition and availability for international duty.

ZIFA revealed that medical information formally provided by the club indicated that Munetsi was managing an injury at the time final squad decisions were being taken. Under FIFA regulations, injuries existing at the start of international duty fall outside automatic insurance cover unless specific medical clearances and risk mitigation documents are provided.

Although Munetsi reportedly expressed willingness to represent Zimbabwe despite the injury, ZIFA said it formally requested a written letter of consent and a liability waiver from his club. The association stated that the required documentation was not received before the CAF deadline for AFCON squad submission.

“In the absence of these mandatory clearances, ZIFA could not lawfully, responsibly or ethically include the player in the final squad,” the statement said, adding that doing so would have exposed both the association and the club to uninsured risk and regulatory non-compliance.

As a result, the Warriors’ head coach proceeded with players who were fully fit, medically cleared and procedurally eligible, in line with CAF and FIFA requirements.

ZIFA paid tribute to Munetsi, praising his professionalism, leadership and long-standing service to the national team, and expressed confidence that he remains a valued member of the Warriors once fully fit.

The association also defended its secretariat, including Kudzai Chitima, distancing administrative officials from technical team selection decisions. ZIFA condemned what it described as hate speech, threats and personal attacks directed at officials on social media, warning that such conduct could be referred to law enforcement agencies.

ZIFA reiterated that Munetsi’s omission was purely based on medical and regulatory grounds, and appealed to supporters to unite behind the Warriors as they prepare to represent Zimbabwe at AFCON in Morocco.