Photo Courtesy Zimbabwe FA Media.
Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees says his side respects Group B 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opponents, but the Warriors have self-belief that they can advance to the next round.
The German, who has revived the fortunes of the Warriors, spoke to News Day newspaper of Zimbabwe following the AFCON draw held on Monday evening in Morocco.
The Warriors were drawn in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and South Africa, opponents Nees said posed an exciting challenge to his charges.
Nees said he is bracing for exciting battles with familiar opponents from Southern Africa’s COSAFA football block.
He said: “Three teams from Cosafa. No secrets here. The teams know each other very well. A derby against rivals Bafana Bafana again, and a clash with a skilful Angola side who have a different playing style.”
Commenting on Angola and the Pharaohs, the German described both opponents as heavyweights with contrasting playing styles.
“Not to mention North African powerhouses Egypt, record champions and one of the tournament favourites, who will come to Morocco with all their stars and best team. It is a very balanced, strong and competitive group," Nees said.
The Warriors mentor has since called for thorough preparations ahead of the AFCON finals
"As any other team, we want to go to the second round. We respect our opponents, but we have all self-belief in our strength and skills to achieve this objective," he added.
Earlier, South Africa coach Hugo Broos said he was satisfied with the AFCON draw, describing the group as ‘not easy” but manageable while citing Egypt as favourites.
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