Elvis Chipezeze Excluded After Costly Mistakes as Zimbabwe Reveals Warriors Squad for AFCON Qualifiers

Experienced goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has been left out of Zimbabwe's provisional squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Equatorial Guinea, following a challenging start to the Warriors' qualifying journey.

Head coach Ramón Catalá has implemented several changes to the squad as Zimbabwe gears up for two vital matches against Equatorial Guinea next month. Chipezeze's removal is particularly significant, as his performances in the earlier qualifying matches have drawn criticism.

The Magesi FC goalkeeper faced harsh judgment during Zimbabwe's recent games against Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Although the Warriors managed a thrilling 3-2 win over Sierra Leone, Chipezeze conceded three goals, failing to convince skeptics that he should remain the team's number one goalkeeper.

His struggles continued in the next match against the DRC, where Zimbabwe lost 2-1 at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. Chipezeze was responsible for the first goal, misjudging a cross that allowed Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa to score, contributing to the team's defeat in front of their home fans.

This recent setback has further cast doubt on his dependability at the international level, especially with the Warriors preparing for two crucial games that could greatly impact their qualification chances.

Chipezeze had previously faced challenges with the national team during the 2019 AFCON finals in Egypt, where his performance against the DRC drew significant criticism. He subsequently spent years away from the national setup before earning another chance with previous coaches and then gaining the trust of Catalá.

However, his recent displays have diminished his standing, prompting the coaching staff to seek other options for the upcoming matches.

ZPC Kariba goalkeeper Future Sibanda has been named as Chipezeze's replacement in the provisional squad, joining Nelson Chadya from Scotland and Martin Mapisa from Hardrock FC.

On a positive note, the squad has been bolstered by the return of seasoned striker Knowledge Musona, who adds valuable experience to Zimbabwe's offensive lineup. His brother Walter Musona has also been recalled, and Highlanders forward Mongameli Tshuma has been given an opportunity.

Zimbabwe will face Equatorial Guinea away on November 12 and then host them on November 16, with both matches being crucial for their qualification hopes.

Currently, the Warriors have three points from their first two matches and are eager to secure positive results to improve their standing in the group.

For Chipezeze, this exclusion marks another setback in his international career, and he will need to put in significant effort at the club level to regain the national selectors' confidence.

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