Warriors itching to turn up heat against Nigeria in Unity Cup, says Nakamba

Warriors captain Marvellous Nakamba says they are ready to turn up the heat when they face The Super Eagles of Nigeria in the upcoming Unity Cup to be staged in London this month.

The Warriors, one of four nations confirmed for the 2026 Unity Cup in London, will take on Nigeria, Jamaica, and India from May 26-30 at Charlton Athletic’s The Valley stadium.

This comes after their triumph in the Mukuru 4 Nations tournament staged in Botswana in March, albeit under Marian Marinica, who recently resigned from the job.

Under interim coach Kaitano Tembo, they are expected to continue with the same trajectory. And captain Nakamba is upbeat ahead of the upcoming assignment.

The last time Zimbabwe faced Nigeria was on 25 March 2025, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, a match that ended 1-1, with Tawanda Chirewa scoring Zimbabwe’s goal.

Nakamba said: “It’s always an honour to wear the Zimbabwe jersey, and tournaments like the Unity Cup make that feeling even more special.

“Playing in London, in front of our supporters in the diaspora, means a lot to us as players. We feel that love and support wherever we go.

“We know what Nigeria brings, and we respect them, but we are focused on ourselves and what we want to achieve. The team is motivated, united, and ready to give everything for the badge and for the nation.”

On the other hand, Zimbabwe are likely to welcome back vice-captain Marshall Munetsi and Italy-based star Jordan Zemura, who both did not feature during Marinica’s reign.

RELATED STORY: Kaitano Tembo’s first words as Warriors Head Coach