Zimbabwe’s Warriors staged a thrilling comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Benin in a crucial Group C World Cup qualifier match held in South Africa.

Benin struck first, capitalising on a costly mistake by Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper Washington Arubi.

Arubi’s attempted clearance was intercepted by Benin forward Mounie, who seized the opportunity and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net, giving Benin an early lead.

The Warriors had a difficult start to the game, failing to find their rhythm in the first half, despite dominating possession.

Benin, however, made the most of their chances, stringing together a series of passes inside Zimbabwe’s 18-yard box, which ultimately led to a goal from their star player, Dodo.

After the halftime break Prince Dube who had a silent afternoon was quickly substituted introducing Tawanda Chirewa to spice up the attacking.

Coach Michael Nees’ halftime instructions had an immediate impact, as Khama Billiat picked out Jordan Zemura on the left wing, who delivered a pinpoint cross that found captain Marshall Munetsi, who scored with a clinical tap-in to halve the deficit.

As time was running out, the Warriors maintained their pressure and earned a free kick, which Jordan Zemura expertly delivered to find the run of Knowledge Musona, who unleashed a powerful shot that beat the Benin goalkeeper.

Knowledge Musona made a stunning return to the Zimbabwe national team, scoring a goal that brought his national tally to 25 goals in 50 matches.

This veteran forward’s presence is a significant boost to the team, especially among the strikers who have been struggling to find the back of the net.

Zimbabwe continued to push for a winning goal, with Knowledge Musona coming agonizingly close, only to be denied by the impressive Benin goalkeeper, who made a crucial save to thwart the effort.

The Warriors made a strategic double substitution, bringing on Tawanda Maswanhise and Terrence Dzvukamanja to replace experienced duo Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona.

Benin has taken the top spot in the group with 8 points, surpassing South Africa, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Nigeria, who still have a game to play. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe remains rooted at the bottom of the group despite managing a draw.

Their late efforts failed to make a difference, as time had run out, and Benin’s defense was clinging on to secure a crucial point that could be vital in their quest for qualification.

Warriors coach Micheal Nees highlighted the intensity of the match and applauded opponents Benin for their resilience.

“The match was a very intensive game, very fast it was an Afcon level match. We thought we should put fresh legs quickly, a player who could bring pressure into their box like Chirewa for Prince Dube who is very good but somehow he didn’t get into the game and Knowledge was showing signs of fatigue that’s why we took him off.

“Benin is a very good team, it’s not by chance that they are sitting on top of the table, their coach has some experience and has also worked with them for over two years,” said coach Nees.

Despite the draw, Michael Nees’ side is showing promising signs of improvement, particularly in their attacking prowess.

The Warriors have now scored six goals in their last three matches, indicating a positive uptick in their goal scoring form.

The Warriors face a stiff challenge as they take on a star-studded Nigerian team in a highly anticipated World Cup qualifier match on Tuesday, March 25.

Zimbabwe and Nigeria played to a thrilling 1-1 draw in their World Cup qualifier first-round match, highlighted by Walter Musona’s spectacular free kick. The rematch is shaping up to be an exciting encounter, with both teams seeking revenge.

New Ziana