Temba Mliswa has extended an invitation for an all-expenses-paid trip to the ZIFA Regional Chairpersons, who are part of the electoral college eligible to vote in the upcoming ZIFA presidential elections.
The purpose of the trip is to foster unity and support for the national football team. Mliswa has invited the chairpersons to attend the Zimbabwe vs. Kenya match on 15 November 2024 at Peter Mokoba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.
The former Norton MP framed the invitation as a chance for the football community to unite and show support for the national team. In his letter to the regional chairpersons, Mliswa emphasized that the event was more than just a football match; it was an opportunity to rally behind the team.
“This event is not merely about the game, but about coming together as a community to show our support for Zimbabwean football and our national pride,” Mliswa wrote.
The invitation includes travel, accommodation, and meals, with the goal of creating a comfortable experience for the attendees, allowing them to focus on enjoying the match and strengthening relationships within the football community. “The aim is to ensure that you can focus on the game and the camaraderie that comes from being with fellow football lovers,” he said.
With the ZIFA elections set for January 2024, other candidates for the presidency include Walter Magaya, Richard Mazodze, Marshal Gore, and Philemon Machana. Despite the upcoming elections, Mliswa made it clear that the invitation was purely for the purpose of supporting the national team and was not linked to any voting activities. “Please note, this invitation is solely for the purpose of supporting our national team and does not involve any election-related activities or influence,” he emphasized.
As for the Warriors, they are preparing for their final two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in Group J against Kenya and Cameroon. Zimbabwe will face Kenya in Polokwane on 15 November before taking on Cameroon in Yaoundé on 19 November. Coach Michael Nees confirmed last week that only Tino Kadewere would miss these crucial matches due to injury.
Zimbabwe’s matches will be held in South Africa, as the country currently does not have a CAF-certified stadium to host international games. The Warriors are in second place in Group J with eight points and need at least a draw against Kenya to secure their qualification for the 2024 AFCON tournament in Morocco. A win against Kenya would guarantee their progression, while a loss would mean they would need to defeat Cameroon, already qualified for the finals, to make it through.
Warriors Squad for AFCON Qualifiers
- Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford), Martin Mapisa (Dynamos)
- Defenders: Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Gerald Takwara (Al Minaa SC), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Godknows Murwira (Caps United), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Jordan Zemura (Udinese)
- Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Marshall Munetsi (Stade de Reims), Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City), Richard Hachiro (Ngezi Platinum)
- Forwards: Khama Billiat (Yadah FC), Tymon Machope (Simba Bhora), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Terrence Dzvukamanja (Supersport United), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants), Walter Musona (Simba Bhora), Douglas Mapfumo (Polokwane City)
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