Warriors’ homecoming ignites nation as 12th man readies self to roar against DRC

The wait is finally over and after four years of wandering, the Warriors are finally back home.

Zimbabwe began their road to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 to be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, with an impressive 3-2 come from behind victory over Sierra Leone in Morocco on Thursday.

The victory has set up a crunch Group E clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the giant National Sports Stadium tomorrow evening. 

This marks the first time since 2021 that the Warriors will play at home.

For years the team was condemned to hosting its home games on foreign soil after local stadiums failed to meet international standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

With renovations having been going on for several years, CAF finally gave the nod for the facility to host international matches.

This nod means the giant facility is now cleared to host AFCON qualifiers and group stage matches, FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup matches up to the group stages and quarter-finals.

And the fans cannot wait.

Speaking to Fanzone, Warriors and Scottland super fan Richard “Che Mhofela” Sande said he is buzzing ahead of the homecoming.

“We managed to collect maximum points away from home and that was a good start. As Warriors I am super excited because we now have a coach on a long contract which is good,” said Sande.

Warriors fans welcoming the team at the RGM International Airport. Picture by Fanzone

The staunch supporter said playing at home finally brings relief after years of suffering on the road.

“Yes it feels good to play in our homeground it has some advantages logistics wise other than away from home. We faced many challenges when we played away from home even us the fans, the treatment and reception we received in some of the venues during the CAF ban in some venues was not good.”

On the outcry over ticket prices, with the cheapest ticket pegged at $10 for early birds before gradually rising to $15 then $20, Sande said he understands the ZIFA’s position.

“The ticket pricing I think it’s something the Association explained to us the fans about the budget constraints that they have to capitalize on the charges. Also I have a feeling it is going to be a full house considering the hunger and anxiety of watching our boys the price it’s fair.

“We are charged up we encourage everyone across the country we are going to have one voice on Monday against DRC,” he said.

Also speaking to Fanzone, Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association Vice President Adomski Mukwasi said the 12th man is ready.

“We are very much excited and ready to cheer the Warriors at home come Monday. This has been long overdue and the excitement of finally experiencing our national team at home after almost an eternity, the feeling is good at this moment,” said Mukwasi.

“We hope the Warriors will get maximum points and qualify without requiring the back door and it is our duty as the 12th player to raise the vibe for our Warriors.”

Mukwasi has called on all football lovers to paint Harare green, yellow and red.

“Now that we are set to play at home on Monday, I urge all soccer loving supporters to come and fill up the stadium and make life difficult for DRC, we are the heart and soul of the team,” added Mukwasi.

Monday evening under the Harare lights, when the Warriors finally emerge from that tunnel, it will be more than a game. It will be a homecoming.