Elvis Chipezeze Dropped After Costly Errors as Zimbabwe Announce Warriors Squad for AFCON Qualifiers

Veteran goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has been dropped from Zimbabwe's provisional squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Equatorial Guinea following a difficult start to the Warriors' qualifying campaign.

Head coach Ramón Catalá has made several changes to his squad as Zimbabwe prepare for two crucial encounters against Equatorial Guinea next month. Chipezeze's omission is among the most notable decisions, with the experienced shot-stopper facing renewed scrutiny following his performances in the opening qualifying matches.

The Magesi FC goalkeeper came under heavy criticism during Zimbabwe's recent fixtures against Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Although the Warriors secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Sierra Leone, Chipezeze conceded three goals and struggled to convince critics that he deserved to retain his position as the team's first-choice goalkeeper.

His difficulties continued in the subsequent encounter against the DRC, when Zimbabwe suffered a 2-1 defeat at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.

Chipezeze was at fault for the opening goal after failing to hold a cross, allowing Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa to capitalise and put the visitors ahead. The mistake proved costly as Zimbabwe eventually suffered defeat in front of their home supporters.

The latest setback has raised further questions about his reliability at international level, particularly with the Warriors facing two important matches that could significantly influence their qualification hopes.

Chipezeze previously experienced a difficult period with the national team during the 2019 AFCON finals in Egypt, where his performance against the DRC attracted widespread criticism. He subsequently spent several years outside the national-team setup before earning another opportunity under previous coaches and later being trusted by Catalá.

However, his recent performances appear to have weakened his position, with the technical team opting for alternative options ahead of the November fixtures.

ZPC Kariba goalkeeper Future Sibanda has been included in the provisional squad as Chipezeze's replacement. He joins Nelson Chadya of Scottland and Martin Mapisa of Hardrock FC in the goalkeeping department.

Meanwhile, the squad has received a significant boost with the return of veteran striker Knowledge Musona, who brings valuable experience to Zimbabwe's attacking options. His brother Walter Musona has also been recalled, while Highlanders forward Mongameli Tshuma has earned an opportunity.

Zimbabwe face Equatorial Guinea away from home on November 12 before hosting the same opponents on November 16, with both matches carrying considerable importance in the race for qualification.

The Warriors currently have three points from their opening two matches and will be determined to collect positive results to strengthen their position in the group.

For Chipezeze, the omission represents another setback in his international career. The goalkeeper will now have to work hard at club level if he hopes to regain the trust of the national-team selectors.

Source https://x.com/FARPostZA/status/2114999869496578199?a=avyX92enCUfTa0soUNI&s=19