By Staff Reporter
Harare — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged a US$150,000 bonus per victory for Zimbabwe’s national men’s football team, the Warriors, ahead of their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.
If the Warriors secure victories in both matches against Benin on March 20 and Nigeria on March 25, the team will receive a total of US$300,000, on top of the US$1 million already pledged by the government for their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
The announcement, made on Thursday, comes at a time when Zimbabwe continues to grapple with challenges in hosting international football matches.
Zimbabwe currently lacks a FIFA-approved stadium, forcing the Warriors to play their home games in neighboring South Africa.
The National Sports Stadium in Harare, which is the closest to meeting international standards, has been undergoing renovations since 2020 after being flagged by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for failing to meet required specifications.
Mnangagwa’s pledge was announced in a statement by Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) boss Nqobile Magwizi.
He did not say if it was Mnangagwa’s personal money, or a government contribution.
“This support underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the growth and success of football in Zimbabwe and the aspirations of the Warriors as they strive for World Cup qualification,” Magwizi said.
“The nation is urged to rally behind the team, as they carry our hopes and pride onto the field. Zimbabwe stands united behind the Warriors.”
Zimbabwe is bidding to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
