New ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi Pledges to Bring Mighty Warriors Closer to WAFCON Dream

Newly elected Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Nqobile Magwizi has vowed to prioritize the Mighty Warriors’ quest to qualify for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026. The team is preparing for a crucial qualifier against Angola, set to take place later this month in South Africa.

The Mighty Warriors began their training camp on Sunday at the ZESA Training Centre in Harare, where Magwizi assured the team of his administration’s full support.

“We stand firmly behind our Mighty Warriors as they prepare for this vital encounter,” Magwizi said. “Their dedication to representing Zimbabwe with honour is truly commendable. As an association, we are committed to providing all necessary support to ensure their success. Together, we believe we can achieve greatness and bring the AFCON dream closer to reality.”

Under the guidance of head coach Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda, the team is working with a 29-member provisional squad, which includes locally-based players. Internationally-based players will join the team in Luanda, Angola, before the qualifier. The squad will be trimmed to 23 ahead of the decisive fixture.

The Mighty Warriors’ preparation marks the start of Magwizi’s tenure as ZIFA president, following his recent election in a process that faced allegations of irregularities. Despite the controversies, Magwizi has pledged to focus on women’s football and grassroots development, signaling a new era for Zimbabwean football.

Mighty Warriors Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers:
Vanessa Lunga (Chapungu Queens), Lindiwe Magwede (Herentals Queens), Precious Mudyiwa (Black Rhinos Queens), Sasha Machona (Maningi YSA).

Defenders:
Sheila Antonio (Chapungu Queens), Egness Tumbare (Correctional Queens), Nobukhosi Ncube (Chapungu Queens), Alice Moyo (Herentals Queens), Nokukhanya Ndlovu (FC Platinum Royals), Fortunate Ngocho (Black Mambas Queens), Purity Mugayi (Black Rhinos Queens).

Midfielders:
Daisy Kaitano (Black Rhinos Queens), Emmaculate Msipa (Ramat Hasharon WFC, Israel), Shyline Dambamuromo (Herentals Queens), Danai Bhobho (Young Africans, Tanzania), Mavis Chirandu (Black Rhinos Queens), Christabel Katona (Black Rhinos Queens), Ennert Chemhere (FC Platinum Royals), Morelife Nyagumbo (Faithdrive Academy), Nadia Semba (Correctional Queens), Natasha Ndowa (Chapungu Queens), Patience Ndlovu (Highlanders Royals).

Forwards:
Ethel Chinyerere (Chapungu Queens), Rutendo Makore (Black Rhinos Queens FC), Yolanda Kanyai (Darwin Olympic Sporting Club, Australia), Ruvimbo Mucherera (Maccabi Hadera WFC, Israel), Maud Mafuruse (Herentals Queens), Mitchel John (Harare City Queens), Anita Ncube (Faithdrive Academy).

As the team intensifies its preparations, Magwizi’s leadership will be closely monitored. His commitment to supporting the Mighty Warriors could set the tone for a brighter future for Zimbabwean football, particularly in the women’s game.

The upcoming WAFCON qualifier is a vital step in the Mighty Warriors’ journey to continental success, and with strong backing from ZIFA, hopes are high for a positive outcome.