In a fiercely contested match, Zimbabwe managed to secure a 0-0 draw against five-time African champions Cameroon in a crucial Group J qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The game, held at Mandela National Stadium last night, showcased Zimbabwe’s resilience and defensive strength.
Despite facing a team with Cameroon’s pedigree, the Warriors stood firm and restricted the Indomitable Lions to zero shots on target. Zimbabwe’s defense, led by captain Marshall Munetsi, was resolute throughout the match. They also created numerous chances, although their finishing let them down, as they could have easily netted three goals.
Zimbabwe dominated in terms of goal attempts, recording 17 to Cameroon’s 13, and also had the edge in corner kicks. The Warriors’ defensive solidity marked their second consecutive clean sheet, following a 0-0 draw against Kenya at the same venue just days earlier. Despite the strong performance, Zimbabwe remains third in Group J with two points from two matches.
Kenya, who secured a 2-1 victory over Namibia, currently leads the group with four points, the same as Cameroon, who won 1-0 against Namibia in their opening match.
Zimbabwe’s coach, Michael Nees, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, noting their growing confidence and solid play. “It was a 0-0 of higher quality. We didn’t sit back, and our confidence on the ball was much better. We deserved more with better finishing. The time will come when we will score,” Nees commented.
The match drew over 10,000 fans, including a notable contingent of Ugandans and Manchester United supporters who chanted for Cameroon’s goalkeeper Andre Onana. Despite the intimidating atmosphere, Zimbabwe remained unfazed and focused on their game.
Cameroon began the match with strong attacking intent, but Zimbabwe, guided by Munetsi, gradually took control. The Warriors had their first clear chance just four minutes in when Khama Billiat’s effort narrowly missed Onana’s goal, following a precise pass from Munetsi. Douglas Mapfumo, who was the only change from the team that played against Kenya, also came close in the first half.
In the second half, Zimbabwe created more opportunities, but the forwards struggled with finishing. Nees reflected on the missed chances, suggesting that fatigue or over-excitement might have played a role. “We worked hard on our defense and ball distribution, and I am super satisfied with the performance, especially considering the short preparation time we had. We must also respect Cameroon; they can score at any moment,” he said.
Billiat was a constant threat to the Cameroonian defense, particularly troubling Michael Ngadeu, who was booked in the 38th minute for fouling the tricky forward. Billiat came close to breaking the deadlock in the 62nd minute when his curling shot was tipped over by Onana.
Cameroon’s coach Marc Brys made several substitutions in the 68th minute in an attempt to break the deadlock, but Zimbabwe’s defense held firm. As the match approached its end, both teams pushed for a decisive goal, with Cameroon nearly clinching victory when captain Vincent Aboubakar fired wide from close range. In the end, Zimbabwe earned a well-deserved point, and Nees remains optimistic about their chances of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations as the team continues to strive for improvement.
**Zimbabwe:** W. Arubi, G. Murwira, M. Munetsi, K. Billiat, W. Musona (T. Chirewa 86), M. Garananga, A. Rinomhota, G. Takwara, D. Mapfumo (T. Hadebe 90+4), J. Zemura, P. Dube (O. Chirinda 78)
**Cameroon:** A. Onana, C. Wooh, M. Ngadeu, T. Nouhou (G. Kilama 68), J. Tchatchoua, C. Baleba, Z. Anguissa (P. Kunde 68), M. Hongla (Y. Nemours 68), C. Bassogog (F. Magri 68), B. Mbeumo, V. Aboubakar
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