Zimbabwe to host Benin in Durban

by Staff Reporter

Tuesday Feb 18, 2025. 14:46

The Zimbabwe Football Association’s (ZIFA) targets have not been met following the announcement that the Moses Mabhida Stadium will host the national team’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Benin.

New ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi had recently given assurances that the National Sports Stadium would once again serve as the home venue for the Warriors’ upcoming matches this year.

However, the stadium in Harare is still being renovated to meet FIFA requirements which includes the installation of electronic turnstiles, bucket seats, standard changing rooms and electronic screens.

Zimbabwe have been forced to host their international fixtures outside the country since the FIFA ban on ZIFA was lifted in July 2023, using venues in Malawi, South Africa and Uganda.

ZIFA confirmed that Michael Nees’ side will entertain the Cheetahs at the iconic stadium in Durban on March 20 as they go in search of their first win in Group C of qualifying for the global showpiece in Canada, Mexico and the United States in 2026.

“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is delighted to announce that the Zimbabwe Senior Men’s National Team, the Warriors, will play their Matchday 5, Group C, FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Benin at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa,” a statement read.

“Originally, ZIFA had planned to host this fixture in Polokwane; however, after it was allocated to Bafana Bafana in January, alternative venues had to be considered.”