NEW: Benjani challenges Warriors to make a mark at AFCON finals

Zimpapers Sports Hub

FORMER Zimbabwe international Benjani Mwaruwari has urged the Warriors to step up and reach the knockout stage of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

The prestigious tournament, featuring Africa’s top 24 teams, will be hosted by Morocco in December.

Zimbabwe secured their spot in the finals by finishing second behind Cameroon in Group J.

Drawn into a challenging group with Angola, Egypt and South Africa, the Warriors face stiff competition, but Benjani believes they can rise to the challenge.

The former Warriors captain emphasised the importance of defeating Egypt, the record holder for AFCON titles, as a statement of intent.

“If we are to be counted among the best in Africa, we must fight to reach the later stages of such competitions,” he said.

“I challenge the boys to beat Egypt, who are the favourites. A win against them, combined with a draw or further victories, will take us to the next round.

“That would mark our arrival on the big stage. From there, it becomes anybody’s game.”

Benjani, a member of the Warriors squad that exited in the group stage under coach Charles Mhlauri during the 2006 AFCON in Egypt, stressed the importance of thorough preparation.

With 11 months to go, he sees ample time for the team to refine their strategy and build cohesion.

“The coaches have a year to prepare,” he said.

“They can cast their net wide, organise friendlies and participate in other tournaments to ensure they assemble the best squad for Morocco.”

The Warriors will also participate in the COSAFA Cup and World Cup qualifiers in the lead-up to December, providing valuable opportunities to fine-tune their gameplay.

Meanwhile, newly elected ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi was present during the AFCON draw, signalling a new era for Zimbabwe football.