Zimbabwe coach says Knowledge Musona was always on standby

Zimbabwe and Al Okhdoud attacker Knowledge Musona. Photo Credit: Zimbabwe Football Association

Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees has explained why he recalled Knowledge Musona from retirement, saying the veteran striker had been on standby since last year ready to rescue the Warriors in case of challenges such as suspensions or injuries.

Nees, according to Zimbabwe’s Herald newspaper, told the press that the former Kaizer Chiefs attacker could have even featured in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers late last year had the Warriors faced problems in games against Kenya and Cameroon.

“He is a good player. He will add a lot of value to the team. He was supposed to come in November, yes, November. We even applied for his [visa to Cameroon],” the German said.

“He has a huge personality and he didn't want to steal the show since we had already won two games against Namibia. He was ready to come if we had then lost to Kenya or had encountered a major problem like suspensions or injuries. Everybody needs Musona to add value to the team.”

Nees named the Saudi Arabia-based Musona alongside his younger brother Walter in the 22-member party gearing up for Group C matches against Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium in South Africa on March 20 then away to Nigeria in a must-win match for both teams five days later.

Musona announced his retirement from national team duties in 2023 to focus on his club career but Nees has convinced the 34-year-old, boasting 54 caps and 24 goals, to have one more hunt with the Warriors.

Other notable inclusions are Wolverhampton Wanderers’ new signing Marshall Munetsi alongside club mate Tawanda Chirewa, on loan at Huddersfield Town, Andy Rinomhota (Cardiff City) and Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town).

The Warriors are in a "group of death" with their qualifying competition also comprising rivals South Africa, Rwanda, and Lesotho in Group C.