New Warriors coach Michael Nees began his reign as the senior men’s coach with a goalless draw against Kenya in the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda on Friday.
Kenya are using the Mandela Stadium due to the unavailability of approved stadiums in their country.
A lot was expected of Nees, but the German tactician failed to stamp his authority in a game where the Warriors fluffed some chances that could have brought them the three points.
Despite both teams creating several chances, neither could find the breakthrough.
Kenya’s coach, Engin Firat, had to contend with multiple injuries in his squad, which saw him bench regular goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, opting for Bryne Omondi between the posts.
Zimbabwe fielded a strong lineup featuring stars Jordan Zemura and Khama Billiat, who had just come out of international retirement.
Kenya, however, started the game brightly, controlling the early exchanges.
Forward Samuel Abuya squandered two good opportunities, while defender David Odhiambo narrowly missed the target with a powerful strike.
Despite the attacking intent from both sides, the lack of clinical finishing left the scoreline unchanged at the final whistle.
Zimbabwe’s midfield was not at its absolute best, with captain Marshall Munetsi holding onto the ball a little too long at times. Meanwhile, Wolves forward Tawanda Chirewa was not at his sharpest.
However, Andy Rinemhota was the workhorse in the middle, winning numerous duels and disrupting the opposition’s play effectively.
Khama Billiat at 34, lasted the entire 90 minutes and could have grabbed at least two assists as he proved that he still has a lot more to offer to the national team.
Bright sparks from second-half substitute Tawanda Maswanhise provided some impetus upfront, and with more clinical finishing, the Warriors could have left Kampala with three points.
Zimbabwe will take on Cameroon next on Tuesday and will try to seek their first win in the qualifying campaign.
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