By Sukoluhle Ndlovu
The Warriors return to the National Sports Stadium tonight for a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with both sides looking to maintain their winning starts to the campaign.
The Group E clash kicks off at 6pm and marks the return of international football to the National Sports Stadium following its recent rehabilitation and homologation.
Zimbabwe head into the match high on confidence after producing a spirited comeback to beat Sierra Leone 3-2 in their opening qualifier.
Coach Ramon Catala, however, expects a tough examination against a DRC side that opened its campaign with a 2-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea.
“It’s going to be a very difficult match. We know Congo is a good team, but we will give our best and try to get the best result,” Catala said.
“All we need to do is focus on ourselves and play our best game to get the desired result.”
The Warriors and DRC are tied on three points at the top of Group E, with the Congolese currently occupying first place after their superior goal difference.
Zimbabwe will be seeking to build on their impressive fightback against Sierra Leone, while also putting behind them their painful recent history against DRC.
The two nations last met at the 2021 AFCON finals, where Zimbabwe suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat.
Tonight’s encounter presents the Warriors with an opportunity to make a statement in the group while giving home fans their first chance to watch the national team in competitive action at the refurbished stadium.
The Warriors will need another disciplined performance as they face a DRC side regarded as the strongest team in the group.
With both teams already on three points, victory would give either side an early advantage in the race for qualification.
Zimbabwe’s opening victory over Sierra Leone has raised expectations around the Warriors, but Catala’s charges now face a significantly tougher test as they attempt to make it two wins from two.
