Kenya’s national football team coach, Engin Firat, has praised the Zimbabwe national football team and expressed confidence in their prospects for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Zimbabwe secured their place in the tournament finals with a 1-1 draw against Firat’s team in South Africa on Friday, confirming their qualification with a game to spare.
Firat, who is familiar with the Warriors’ strengths, commended Zimbabwe’s tactical approach under German coach Michael Nees. He noted that Nees has implemented a strategy that capitalizes on the team’s strong defense while focusing on quick transitions during attacks. Firat also highlighted the return of key player Khama Billiat, who adds creativity and control in midfield.
“The team is very competitive now. They have players in top clubs across big leagues, which makes them a strong side,” Firat remarked. He also pointed out that despite the challenges in their qualifying group, including tough teams like Namibia, Zimbabwe has shown resilience and solid performance.
Firat believes that Zimbabwe has a genuine chance of advancing beyond the group stage in the upcoming AFCON, a feat the team has never achieved before. “With their solid defense and focus on fast transitions, I am confident that they will make it out of the group stage, something they haven’t done in the past,” Firat added.
Zimbabwe has historically struggled to progress past the group stages in AFCON, with previous coaches including Sunday Chidzambga, Charles Mhlauri, Kalisto Pasuwa, and Norman Mapeza all failing to lead the Warriors to the knockout rounds. However, Firat’s optimism reflects the progress the team has made under Nees’ leadership.
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