Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe national football team, popularly known as the Warriors, have suffered an early blow in their build-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after three players were released from the provisional squad following injury concerns. The decision, made by the technical and medical teams, comes as the squad continues preparations ahead of the continental showpiece tournament, which kicks off on 21 December 2025.
The trio affected by the latest development are Tymon Machope, Xolani Ndlovu, and Andrew Mbeba, all of whom were assessed during routine medical evaluations by the Warriors’ technical department. According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), the players were sent home as a precautionary measure to safeguard their long-term fitness.
“The Zimbabwe Warriors’ Technical Department confirms that three players have been officially released from camp following medical assessments that ruled them out due to injury: Tymon Machope, Xolani Ndlovu, and Andrew Mbeba. Their release is a precautionary measure to protect their long-term fitness. We thank them for their professionalism and wish them a swift recovery,” the association said in a statement seen by Soccer24.
While the development is a setback, the locally-based contingent of the Warriors has already begun arriving at camp, with players reporting from Sunday. Coaching staff are expected to intensify training and tactical preparations in the coming days as they continue to build cohesion and refine strategies for the tournament.
ZIFA officials emphasised that despite the temporary loss of these three players, the team remains focused and committed to achieving a strong performance at AFCON. The final 23-man squad is due to be announced next week, in compliance with Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations, which require participating nations to submit their final squad lists at least ten days before the start of the tournament.
Three Key Warriors Ruled Out, Squad Trimmed Ahead of Upcoming Matches
The early release of Machope, Ndlovu, and Mbeba highlights the careful approach taken by the Warriors’ technical team in balancing immediate tournament needs with the long-term health of players. In recent years, several teams have faced challenges when key squad members were rushed back from injury, often leading to recurring issues that affect both club and national team careers. By prioritising player welfare, the Warriors aim to ensure that squad members remain fit and competitive throughout the tournament and beyond.
Fans and pundits have expressed understanding for the decision, noting that protecting the players’ health is critical for both short-term performance and long-term development. “It’s disappointing to see key players sidelined, but we need them to be fully fit for the big stages,” said one supporter. “The Warriors’ management is doing the right thing by prioritising their wellbeing.”
The coaching team, led by the head coach and supported by the technical staff, is expected to use this period to finalise tactical formations, enhance team chemistry, and evaluate remaining candidates for the final squad. With AFCON looming, these training sessions are crucial in instilling a clear game plan and preparing players for the intensity of continental competition.
ZIFA has also assured the public that the released players will continue to receive medical support and rehabilitation guidance to facilitate a smooth recovery. Once fully fit, Machope, Ndlovu, and Mbeba are expected to return to their respective club duties and continue contributing to Zimbabwean football at the domestic and international levels.
The Warriors face the challenge of competing in one of Africa’s most competitive tournaments, with teams from across the continent vying for glory. While injuries are an inevitable part of football, the technical team’s proactive approach aims to mitigate risks while ensuring that the squad is composed of players in peak condition for the demands of the tournament.
As preparations continue, attention now shifts to the remaining members of the provisional squad. Training sessions are expected to focus on fitness, set-piece routines, and strategic plays to enhance both defensive solidity and attacking creativity. Supporters are eager to see the team gel in the coming weeks, with hopes that the Warriors will perform strongly on the AFCON stage.
The final squad announcement, expected next week, will officially confirm the 23 players who will represent Zimbabwe at the 2025 AFCON. Until then, the technical team will continue working meticulously to ensure that the Warriors enter the tournament fully prepared, resilient, and ready to compete against Africa’s top national teams.
Despite this early setback, confidence remains high among officials, players, and fans that the Warriors can overcome the challenges and make a strong impression in Morocco, where the tournament is scheduled to take place later this month.
Source- iHarare
