Zimbabwe produced a sensational second-half comeback to beat Sierra Leone 3-2 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Morocco. The Warriors appeared destined for defeat after trailing 2-0 at half-time, but three goals inside the final 18 minutes transformed the Group E encounter at Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi in El Jadida.
Sierra Leone made the perfect start when Alie Conteh opened the scoring after only seven minutes. The Leone Stars doubled their advantage in the 27th minute through Sallieu Tarawallie, leaving Zimbabwe with a mountain to climb after a difficult opening half. Sierra Leone were playing their designated home fixture in Morocco because they do not currently have a CAF-approved stadium suitable for international matches.
Zimbabwe returned after the interval with greater urgency and gradually forced their opponents onto the defensive. Marshall Munetsi, the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder, finally gave the Warriors hope when he reduced the deficit with 18 minutes remaining. This marked a significant turning point in the match, as Zimbabwe pushed for a comeback.
Tawanda Chirewa needed only four minutes to level the match at 2-2, dramatically shifting the momentum towards Zimbabwe. The equaliser set the stage for a thrilling finish, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Zimbabwe's momentum was building, and the home crowd was energized.
With two minutes of normal time remaining, Munetsi completed the comeback with his second goal of the night, sealing a memorable victory and three valuable qualifying points. The Zimbabwe players celebrated a hard-fought win, while Sierra Leone were left to ponder what might have been.
Zimbabwe will now turn their attention to Monday’s home qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. The match is scheduled to kick off at 6pm on September 28, according to ZIFA’s official ticketing platform. DR Congo will also arrive in Harare with three points after captain Chancel Mbemba and Yoane Wissa scored in their 2-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea in Kinshasa.
Monday’s encounter will provide an early battle for control of Group E between its two opening-round winners. It will also mark a significant homecoming for the Warriors, who are returning to the National Sports Stadium for a major competitive international fixture following the restoration of approval for Zimbabwe to stage matches at the venue. The team will look to build on their momentum and secure another win.
Key points
- Marshall Munetsi scored twice as Zimbabwe came from behind to beat Sierra Leone 3-2.
- Zimbabwe will now face the Democratic Republic of Congo at home on September 28.
- The win marked a significant turning point for Zimbabwe in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
