Veteran Zimbabwean Goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze Rejoins Warriors Squad After Stellar Magesi FC Run
In a welcome boost for the Warriors, 34-year-old goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has been recalled to Zimbabwe’s national team following a string of exceptional performances for Magesi FC in the South African Premiership. National team coach Michael Nees confirmed Chipezeze’s inclusion in the squad for upcoming friendlies against Burkina Faso and Niger, signalling renewed faith in one of Zimbabwe’s most experienced shot-stoppers.
Since joining Magesi FC at the start of the season, Chipezeze has been virtually unbeatable between the posts. His commanding presence, swift reflexes and calm leadership have been instrumental in the club’s surge up the Premiership table. The highlight of his campaign came during the Carling Black Label Cup, where he earned Man of the Match honours in three consecutive games. His heroics—ranging from penalty saves to last-ditch stops—cemented his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable goalkeepers.
Chipezeze last represented Zimbabwe in 2021, featuring in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier away to Algeria. After two years on the international sidelines, the veteran keeper expressed his delight at being summoned back to the Warriors setup. “I would love to play for the national team again,” Chipezeze said, reflecting both pride and determination as he prepares to don the green, gold and red once more.
Zimbabwe is scheduled to face Burkina Faso on June 6, 2025, in Morocco, before taking on Niger four days later on June 10. These matches will form the cornerstone of Michael Nees’ early plans to rebuild the squad and sharpen their tactical cohesion ahead of more competitive fixtures. With Chipezeze’s experience and form at their disposal, the Warriors are better placed to test new defensive partnerships and fine-tune their strategies.
Beyond his shot-stopping prowess, Chipezeze brings vital leadership to the dressing room. Younger goalkeepers at Magesi FC have spoken of his guidance in training and his mentorship off the pitch. This blend of on-field excellence and off-field influence is exactly what Nees aims to harness as he balances youth and experience in his squad.
While Chipezeze’s return is cause for optimism, competition for the gloves remains fierce. The national squad includes several promising keepers who have impressed in domestic and regional leagues. Nees’ decision to recall Chipezeze underscores the coach’s willingness to select form players, regardless of age, while maintaining healthy rivalry in the squad.
As the Warriors assemble in Morocco this June, all eyes will be on Chipezeze to see if he can replicate his club form on the international stage. His journey—from a standout season at Magesi FC to a national team recall—serves as a powerful reminder that hard work and consistency can revive even the most interrupted careers. For Zimbabwean football fans, seeing Elvis Chipezeze back in goal represents both nostalgia for past glories and excitement for future prospects.
