ZIMBABWE 1-1 NIGER

Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025
Venue: Stade Père Jégo, Casablanca

Zimbabwe’s Warriors played out a 1–1 draw against Niger in an international friendly
held at Stade Père Jégo in Casablanca on Tuesday evening, showing marked
improvement following their 2–0 defeat to Burkina Faso just four days earlier.

The Warriors made a bright start and were rewarded in the opening stages through
defender Gerald Takwara. In a congested penalty area, Takwara displayed impressive
composure with his back to goal, expertly controlling the ball from a corner before rifling
a rising shot into the roof of the net to hand Zimbabwe a deserved lead.

Despite a strong start, Zimbabwe gradually lost their grip on the game in the second
half. Their resistance was eventually broken in the 71st minute when Niger were
awarded a penalty, which they converted to level the scores.

There were several notable milestones for the Warriors on the night. Brentford
goalkeeper Marley Tavaziva made his long-awaited debut for Zimbabwe, coming on at
half-time to replace Elvis Chipezeze. Sean Fusire of Sheffield Wednesday also earned
his first start, while Germany-based midfielder Jonah Fabisch made a welcome return
to the national side after a lengthy absence. Tavaziva’s debut, however, saw him
concede the equaliser from the penalty spot.

Zimbabwe nearly restored their lead in the 78th minute when substitute Walter Musona
rattled the crossbar with a powerful effort.

In a bid to snatch a late winner, head coach Michael Nees introduced experienced
attackers Khama Billiat and Terence Dzvukamanja in the 79th minute. Their presence
brought renewed urgency to the Warriors’ forward play, but despite late pressure, the
match ended in a 1–1 draw.

The result provided encouraging signs for the technical team as they continue to fine-
tune preparations ahead of the Warriors’ upcoming competitive fixtures.

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