The Zimbabwe Warriors finally fought with courage in the game against Cameroon

CHENGETAI NYAMUSHONYONGORA*

If I were to summarize Zimbabwe’s performance against Cameroon in the AFCON Qualifiers, which ended in a goalless draw, it would be courage, discipline, Khama, and Munetsi. Marshall Munetsi played like a true warrior, wearing his heart on his sleeve—and the captain’s armband on his bicep.

Khama Billiat in action against the Indomitable Lions on Tuesday [Image: X/@online_zifa]

While it wasn't a five-star performance, it was refreshing to see the team play with modern tactical intentions. They had a clear idea of how they wanted to approach the game, even if the execution fell short. Considering that the new coach only had nine days to work with the squad, their bravery and willingness to try were commendable.

The Warriors had 17 shots, with five on target, compared to Cameroon’s 13 shots, none of which were on target. They fought like Warriors.

Washington Arubi, playing from the back, and total football concepts

One of the biggest surprises for fans, myself included, was seeing 38-year-old Washington Arubi called back into the squad. Many of us thought his national team days were behind him, but Nees clearly had a plan. The team lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with an unchanged backline and a double pivot of Munetsi and Rinomhota.

Khama Billiat played as a supporting striker alongside Walter Musona, Prince Dube, and Douglas Mapfumo in the attack.

Nees tried to gradually introduce concepts of total football, a system that has become a hallmark of modern football. While different coaches implement it in various ways, its core principles—playing from the back, fluidity, and collective defensive responsibility—remain the same.

Total football demands players be comfortable in with building from the back to create unpredictable attacking patterns, dropping deep to collect the ball from defenders and creating attacking spaces in the midfield.

Zimbabwe consistently tried to build from the back throughout the game, and Arubi impressed with his passing and composure. Cameroon noticed this and pressed high, with the intention of forcing Zimbabwe’s defenders to play with more urgency.

One notable tactic that worked in our favor was eliminating André Onana’s influence by starting the build-up from deep in our half. By inviting Cameroon defence to press high, Zimbabwe was able to force Onana off his goal line.

In response to this pressing, Munetsi attempted a long-range shot early in the first half, showing the tactical awareness to exploit any openings.

Initially, Zimbabwe struggled and resorted to long balls, but as the game progressed, they found their rhythm. The build-up play created space in the midfield for Khama to exploit, and while the system didn’t work on several occasions, the team did not stop trying which eventually led to several good chances.

Khama, in particular, thrived in this setup and could have scored once or twice if luck had been on his side.

Defensive solidity, Munetsi's leadership, and late substitutions

The backline of Takwara, Garananga, Zemura, and Murwira was solid, again, restricting Cameroon to zero shots on target—a rare statistic for an attacking line led by Vincent Aboubakar. Zemura, as usual, made some dangerous crosses, creating a few promising opportunities.

Munetsi was a vocal leader on the pitch, barking orders and making a real difference. His captain’s performance, including his trademark attacking bursts, contributed to few half decent chances, though fatigue began to show toward the end.

The team’s intensity dropped in the final 30 minutes as Cameroon made four substitutions at the hour mark. Fans were left questioning Nees' decision to delay changes until the 79th minute, when he brought on Obriel Chirinda for Prince Dube.

Four minutes later, Chirewa replaced Musona, and Hadebe came on for Mapfumo to help secure the draw. However, Chirinda and Chirewa had little time to make an impact. Introducing Chirewa earlier could have added a different dynamic to our attack, given his talent.

The challenge ahead: Back-to-back games against Namibia

Tuesday’s goalless draw against Cameroon leaves Zimbabwe third in the group with two points, behind Kenya and Cameroon, who both defeated Namibia. For Zimbabwe, winning both of the upcoming games against Namibia is now crucial.

The Warriors will face Namibia away on 7 October 2024, before hosting them on 11 October 2024.

With two points from a possible six, it's not the worst outcome for a team that has been together for just nine days. They’ve built a foundation with a solid showing against Kenya and a spirited performance against Cameroon.

However, they will need to step up in the must-win games against Namibia to keep their qualification hopes alive.

*Chengetai Nyamushonyongora writes here in his personal capacity.