Zimbabwe’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end on Friday evening after a 1-0 defeat to Benin in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.
The Warriors went into the match still searching for their first victory of the campaign, needing both a win and favourable results elsewhere to keep their dream alive. Instead, the opposite unfolded. Augsburg forward Steve Mounie struck the decisive goal in the 77th minute, sealing Zimbabwe’s fate.
The result marked Zimbabwe’s third loss in the qualifiers, adding to four draws, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the group with just four points from seven matches. Benin climbed to second place on 11 points, trailing leaders South Africa by five after Bafana Bafana’s 3-0 victory over Lesotho.
Nigeria and Rwanda, meanwhile, were set to face off on Saturday in a clash that could further shape the battle for the best runner-up spot.
For Zimbabwe, the campaign now ends in disappointment, with only pride left to play for as they prepare to meet Rwanda in South Africa today.
