Is the best yet to come from Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees? A tactical analysis

CHENGETAI NYAMUSHONYONGORA*

HARARE – In the past, when Zimbabwe's national team took to the field, fans expected nothing less than dominance, with the team winning by at least four goals to none. Fans anticipated Brazilian-style flair and the excitement that comes with winning and controlling a football match. And can you blame them? Over the years, Zimbabwe has witnessed the brilliance of players like Knowledge Musona, a young Khama Billiat, and legends like Peter and Madinda Ndlovu, and Bruce Grobbelaar, among others. These players dazzled on the national stage, giving fans plenty to cheer about.

Are we yet to get the best football action from Michael Nees

Michael Nees [Image: X/@online_zifa]

However, when Zimbabwe faced Kenya on Friday 6 September 2024, the anticipation was different. There were no high expectations of miracles or quick turnarounds. Fans generally accepted that the team was in a rebuilding phase, and returning to past glories would take time. The German coach Michael Nees’s media campaign helped manage expectations.

By downplaying his mainstream credentials and presenting himself as a simple, hardworking coach, he reduced the pressure on himself. Nees also reminded the nation that rebuilding the team was not an overnight task.

While there were a few positives from the game, it wasn’t immediately clear what tactical direction Nees is aiming for.

Very deep defensive block and positional discipline

The German coach went back to the basics. It was evident in the way he set up the team that his primary objective was to avoid conceding. The defensive shape and cautious approach showed that securing the defense was his top priority, laying a solid foundation for the team's attack.

Nees opted for a back four, consisting of Jordan Zemura, Godknows Murwira, Gerald Takwara, and Copenhagen center-back Munashe Garananga, who stepped in for the absent veteran Teenage Hadebe. The four played conservatively, defending deep and avoiding risks that come with pressing high up the pitch. This low defensive block provided solid cover for the 38-year-old goalkeeper Washington Arubi.

To increase numbers in attack and create overloads in the final third, Zemura frequently pushed forward, operating as a left-winger or left-wing-back. The aim was to generate opportunities by delivering crosses into the box, adding width and attacking support while transforming the formation during attacking phases.

This structure effectively turned the team’s shape into a 3-5-2 during attacks, with Murwira slotting in as a center-back when Zemura advanced. This tactical set up brought balance to the defense. Zemura, having played a similar left-wing-back role at Bournemouth in the Championship, was familiar with the responsibility of covering the entire left flank.

Gerald Takwara, in my opinion, was the unsung hero of the game. He won most of his individual duels, limiting Kenya’s attacking chances and helping to secure the Warriors’ defense.

The return of Khama Billiat and midfield struggles

Former Ajax Cape Town, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns star Billiat played his first game for his country after announcing his international retirement three years ago. It’s no secret that Khama Billiat has lost some of his edge. His ability to take on defenders, run past them, and win fouls in dangerous areas has noticeably declined.

Yet, he still proved to be a valuable player who can make a difference in decisive moments. Nees praised Khama Billiat's performance, naming him man of the match. He told reporters, "For me, he was very good. Khama Billiat was the best man. He played really great," acknowledging the veteran player's significant impact on the game.

Andy Rinomhota, tasked with playing as a pivot, found it difficult to influence the game. His role required him to be the box-to-box player, creating chances for Chirewa and Billiat, but he couldn’t cope with the physicality of the Kenyan players, often being hurried or outmuscled off the ball. The return of Marvelous Nakamba to the lineup may provide more solidity in the midfield, allowing Rinomhota to play with more freedom and focus on creativity.

Verdict

Despite the struggles, this was only the first game, and there are definitely positives to take away, along with clear room for improvement.

The team held their own for most of the match but struggled with fitness in the final 30 minutes, conceding the majority of chances during this period.

Nees will have to be smart in managing the fitness and conditioning of the squad, ensuring he calls up match-fit players and makes timely substitutions.

The challenge ahead: Cameroon

The upcoming game against Cameroon will be another test for Nees. The star-studded Indomitable Lions took all three points in their Friday fixture, defeating Namibia 1-0 thanks to a goal from Vincent Aboubakar.

Zimbabwe will once again play at home in Uganda, with the match kicking off at 6:00 p.m. at the Mandela National Stadium.

All eyes will be on Nees and whether his tactical approach will show clearer signs of progress in what promises to be a much tougher challenge.