President Emmerson Mnangagwa hosted the Zimbabwe National Football Team (the Warriors) at State House in Harare to celebrate their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Finals in Morocco.
The event, organised by the Acting Minister of Sports, Arts, and Recreation, Honorable Kazembe Kazembe, was attended by the national team’s head coach, Michiel Nees, the technical team, and locally based Warriors players.
During the congratulatory ceremony, President Mnangagwa announced a monetary reward of $6,500 for each player and technical team member.
In his address, President Mnangagwa praised the team’s efforts and commended Coach Michiel Nees for his leadership throughout the qualifiers.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate our national coach, Michiel Nees. I warmly welcome you to Zimbabwe, my dear brother,” he said.
The President also delivered an inspirational message to the team: “Remember that you are not just representing yourselves; you are representing every Zimbabwean who dreams of success in their respective endeavors. Play with courage, with heart, and as one united team.”
The Warriors secured nine points to finish second in Group J, earning their spot in the AFCON Finals scheduled for December 2025 in Morocco. The government has allocated $1 million to support the team’s preparations and participation in the tournament.