At a time when advancing seemed easier than being eliminated, the Zimbabwe Warriors have surprisingly exited the 2024 COSAFA Cup competition.
This follows a disappointing 2-0 loss to Kenya at Wolfson Stadium in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) today (Tuesday).
The defeat marks a disappointing end to the Warriors’ campaign, who were favored to reach the semifinals, having led Group B with six points since the competition began last week.
Also read: Warriors slump to worst position in eight years on latest FIFA World Rankings
Kenya earned their spot in the semifinals with second-half goals from Benson Omalla and Austin Odhiambo.
Odhiambo scored the first goal in the 54th minute, with Omalla securing the win for the Harambee Stars in the 72nd minute.
This loss is a significant setback for the Warriors, who were heavily favored to progress as Group B winners.
This came after convincing victories against Comoros (1-0) and Zambia (2-0) in their opening matches.
Jairos Tapera’s team only needed a draw against Kenya to secure the top spot in the group.
The situation dramatically changed as the East Africans handed Zimbabwe their first defeat of the tournament, resulting in the Warriors’ elimination.
This defeat also extends Zimbabwe’s winless streak against Kenya, as the Warriors have never beaten the East African nation in their three encounters.
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