Zimbabwe Warriors coach Ramon Catala has emphasized the need for better midfield control as his team prepares to host Equatorial Guinea in Harare. The Warriors were held to a goalless draw in Cameroon, with goalkeeper Nelson Chadya making crucial saves to secure a point. Catala made changes in the second half, replacing Tawanda Chirewa with Emmanuel Jalai and moving Andy Rinomhota into midfield, in an effort to regain control.
The draw kept Zimbabwe second in Group E of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, level on four points with Equatorial Guinea but ahead on goal difference. DR Congo lead the group after beating Sierra Leone 3-1 to maintain their perfect record. Zimbabwe now need strong results in their remaining fixtures to keep their qualification hopes alive. The Warriors host Equatorial Guinea at the National Sports Stadium on Monday, with Catala urging his side to build on the draw.
Catala attributed the team's improved performance in the second half to the tactical changes he made. "Sometimes the opponent comes playing good football and today was such a day," he said after Thursday's match in Yaoundé. The coach emphasized that his team needs to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities if they are to succeed in the return match.
Goalkeeper Nelson Chadya was instrumental in Zimbabwe's point, making a series of important saves as Equatorial Guinea threatened, particularly after half-time. The Warriors came under pressure early in the second period, but Chadya's heroics kept the score level. Zimbabwe also had to withstand late pressure, with Marshal Munetsi making a crucial clearance to prevent what appeared to be a certain goal.
The match had opened cautiously, but Equatorial Guinea created the first clear opportunity. Zimbabwe pressed high to force errors, while Corbin Mthunzi and Kevin Moyo helped contain the hosts' counter-attacks. Chirewa came close for the Warriors after breaking forward from the right, his effort missing by inches. At the other end, Chadya was quickly called into action as the game opened up.
The draw leaves Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea level on points, while DR Congo's win over Sierra Leone gives them a three-point cushion at the top. Sierra Leone have yet to pick up a point after three matches. Zimbabwe's immediate task is the return fixture against Equatorial Guinea in Harare, where Catala's side will need to turn their defensive resilience into a more controlled performance.
Catala's side will need to be more proactive in the return match if they are to strengthen their position in the group. The coach's tactical acumen will be crucial in helping the Warriors secure a win and keep their qualification hopes alive. With the right approach, Zimbabwe can overcome Equatorial Guinea and take a significant step towards qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Key points
- Zimbabwe coach Ramon Catala calls for improved midfield control ahead of return match against Equatorial Guinea.
- The Warriors were held to a goalless draw in Cameroon, with goalkeeper Nelson Chadya making crucial saves.
- Zimbabwe needs a strong result in the return match to keep their qualification hopes alive.
