Liverpool youngster Isaac Mabaya has been withdrawn from Zimbabwe's squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo due to an injury. Mabaya, a versatile defender, had been expected to make his debut for the Warriors but will no longer join the national team camp. The injury was sustained while playing for Liverpool Under-21s in their 5-1 Premier League 2 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion on 19 September.
Mabaya's journey through Liverpool academy began at the age of six, and he progressed into the Under-18 side as a 16-year-old. Initially playing as a wide midfielder, he was converted into an attacking full-back, showcasing his pace and ability to advance down the right. In September 2021, he signed his first professional Liverpool contract after representing England at Under-15 and Under-16 level. Mabaya trained with Liverpool's senior team and impressed during the club's 2022 pre-season programme.
The 21-year-old's progress was disrupted by injuries, including a hamstring problem that kept him out for about 18 months. Mabaya eventually made his competitive Liverpool first-team debut against Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup in February 2025. His selection by Zimbabwe offered him an opportunity to begin his senior international career, but his latest injury has placed that milestone on hold. Mabaya joined League One side Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan in August 2025 to gain senior first-team experience.
Zimbabwe will face Sierra Leone in Morocco on 24 September before returning home to host DR Congo at the National Sports Stadium in Harare on 28 September. The Warriors' camp includes captain Marvelous Nakamba, Marshall Munetsi, Andy Rinomhota, Munashe Garananga, and Tawanda Chirewa. Goalkeepers Elvis Chipezeze, Martin Mapisa, and Nelson Chadya have also reported, alongside locally based defenders Peter Muduhwa, Kevin Moyo, and Emmanuel Jalai.
The Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed Mabaya's withdrawal while announcing that 19 players had reported for duty ahead of the two qualifiers. The squad includes Marshall Munetsi, Elvis Chipezeze, Daniel Msendami, Andy Rinomhota, Prosper Padera, Munashe Garananga, Sean Fusire, Bill Antonio, Shane Maroodza, Marvelous Nakamba, Thando Ngwenya, Tawanda Chirewa, Corbin Mthunzi, Martin Mapisa, Nelson Chadya, Peter Muduhwa, Kevin Moyo, Emmanuel Jalai, and Abubakar Moffat.
Mabaya's injury occurred when he created the opening goal inside 90 seconds but was injured while delivering the assist and had to be substituted after only five minutes. Liverpool rewarded him with a new contract in May 2023. His impressive performance for Liverpool's development side led to his selection for the Zimbabwe national team.
The Warriors will aim to secure crucial victories in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers without Mabaya's contribution. Zimbabwe's football fans will have to wait for Mabaya's senior international debut, which was highly anticipated following his progression through Liverpool's academy and his recent performances for the club.
Key points
- Liverpool youngster Isaac Mabaya ruled out of Zimbabwe's AFCON 2027 qualifiers due to injury
- Mabaya's injury occurred during Liverpool Under-21s' 5-1 Premier League 2 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion
- Zimbabwe will face Sierra Leone and DR Congo in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers without Isaac Mabaya
